Football 2012

FOOTBALL ‘12 EDITION

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2B — The Newnan Times-Herald — Wednesday, August 22, 2012

East Coweta Indians

Region 3-AAAAAA Head coach: Clint Wade

Nutrition Facts Serving Size 1 team

Photos by Jeffrey Leo

East Coweta head football coach Clint Wade and his staff face replacing 32 seniors from last year’s team, the majority of which were heavy contributors during a 7-4 season.

The Young and the Restless

BY DOUG GORMAN dgorman@newnan.com

I

t happens from time to time.

High school football coaches find themselves having to rebuild their program after getting hit hard by graduation.

But it’s a good bet East Coweta head coach Clint Wade hasn’t ever had to go through a reconstruction process quite like the one he faces heading into the 2012 campaign.

Gone from last year’s team are 32 seniors, the most that he’s seen come through the program. Wade’s tenure at the school, both as an assistant and defensive coordinator through his first four years as Indians head coach, now numbers over 20 years.

A massive rebuild is under way in 2012.

“Rebuilding, that’s a good word for it,” Wade said. “We lost some good players, most who were able to step in and contribute too.”

Wade heads into his fifth season as the Indians’ head coach after putting together 7-4 records in each of his first four seasons and leading the team to a first-round trip to the playoffs.

East Coweta started the 2011 season on a roll, winning its first six games, and even appearing briefly in The Associated Press Top-10 before going through a major tailspin and dropping three games in a row.

The Indians closed out the regular season on a high note, ending a seven-year drought against their biggest rivals Newnan, by putting together a second-half rally against the Cougars to win the game 28-25 at Drake Stadium on the Newnan campus.

East Coweta’s playoff hopes were short-lived as it fell to Colquitt County on the road in south Georgia.

The Indians haven’t won a first-round state playoff game since 2007 when they beat Stephenson en route to a 10-2 record, but Wade is hoping the pieces are in place this year to change some of that.

Among the key losses for East Coweta heading into the season are safety Michael Collins and Willie Holloway.

The defensive specialist led the Indians with more than 100 tackles each.

Collins had 124 tackles and a team-leading seven sacks, while Holloway finished his senior campaign with 115 tackles and two forced fumbles.

Collins signed a letter of intent with West Georgia University and will be a freshman for the Wolves this season.

But for Wade, it’s more about what the Indians have coming back, than not about who they have to replace.

The Indians will centerpiece their team around the talents of senior Dee Godfrey.

The 5-7, 164-pound senior will be the Indians’ go-to-guy on both sides of the line of scrimmage.

He is also the only returning starter on defense.

Dee Godfrey, lef t, and Markel Boston (15) sandwich a Whitewater ball carrier during East Coweta’s scrimmage last week. The duo hope to solidify the Indians secondary this year.

Godfrey has been the team’s leading rusher for two years in a row.

Last season, he rushed for 620 yards and seven touchdowns.

From his cornerback spot, Godfrey also made 32 tackles, two interceptions and 13 pass breakups.

They biggest question mark for the Indians’ coaching staff will be how to use him and not wear him down during the long 10-game regular season, and then if all goes well, make sure he is still fresh for the playoffs.

“He’s the senior, we have to get him the ball a little more, but we have to be careful, too” Wade said. “He has a lot of energy, and he’s in great shape, but we know we are going to have to spell him some.”

Weylin Orr also brings back experience at tailback.

The junior rushed for 216 yards and three touchdowns in limited playing time, but that is expected to change this year as he is definitely in the team’s offense mix this year.

“He got some playing time last season, and he is ready to step it up this year,” Wade said.

The Indians have also put out the ‘help wanted’ sign hoping to replace fullback Carl

INGREDIENTS: This year’s Football ‘12 edition was created by the Newnan Times-Herald sports department with help from staff photographers Jeffrey Leo and Bob Fraley who took the images for the publication. Graphic designer Sonya Studt created the “Coweties” logo from our cover and paginator Will Blair aided in the cover design.

Cover and page layouts were done by sports editor Chris Goltermann.

Goltermann and assistant sports editor Doug Gorman wrote the copy.

Dann.

“He was just a fantastic blocker,” Wade said.

Malik Robinson, Michael Dayton and Tyler Brown have shown their ability to step in and replace Dann.

“They can get out there on

The Indians have two established running backs in senior Demarcus “Dee” Godfrey and junior Weylin Orr to help lead this year’s offense.

the perimeter,” Wade said.

“They all have a chance to see a lot of playing time this year.”

For the third year in a row, a new starting quarterback will line up under center for the Indians.

Junior Bryce Gemmel takes over for Garrett Schrepfer, who passed for 1,010 yards and four touchdowns last season. Back-up quarterback Allan Maraman, who was the Indians’ second string quarterback, also graduated.

“He has waited in the wings.

Now it’s his turn,” Wade said of Gemmel, who worked his way into the offense in short yardage and goal-line packages, scoring his first varsity touchdown in East Coweta’s win at Langston Hughes last year.

For the first time in several seasons, a quarterback gets the starting nod for the Indians with more than one year of eligibility left.

“We are going to have two years with him, so that should give us some stability,” Wade said.

Hamp Morris is slated to be the Indians’ back-up quarterback.

“He executes really well, and he has a good head on his shoulders,” Wade said.

Several guys are fighting for playing time on the offensive line.

Senior Zack Harness (6-3,

270) is going to be counted on to anchor things up front as the lone returner. Senior Cliff Strong and juniors Charles Bush, Qua Fuller and Jamarcus Wilson are also vying for playing time. At the start of the preseason, Wilson and Bush were the favorites to start at the guard positions and Fuller at left tackle.

East Coweta will also need younger players like Dawson Ellis, Rod Henderson, Jamal Thomas and Tristan Mann to contribute.

“It is just a process we are going through right now,” Wade said. “We are trying to get them ready for that first game and beyond that.”

A year ago, East Coweta spread the wealth among its wide receivers and this year Gemmel won’t have to look to hard to find the team’s leading receiver.

Markell Boston returns for his junior year after leading the team with 22 catches and a touchdown a year ago.

His lone score was a big one, hauling in a 40-yard pass late against Newnan to complete a 28-25 comeback victory that allowed the Indians to snap an eight-game losing streak against their county rival while leapfrogging them for a third-place finish in Region 2-AAAAA.

See INDIANS, page 3B

East Coweta Indians Roster No. Name Yr. 1 Wyatt Potter Sr. 2 Bryce Gemmel Jr. 3 Dee Godfrey Sr. 4 Nigel Gay Sr. 5 Weylin Orr Jr. 6 Randale House Sr. 8 Casey Webb Jr. 9 Hamp Morris Sr. 10 Jemarcus Godfrey Sr. 11 Devontay Parker Jr. 12 Jacob Bergstrom So. 13 Ricky Metcalf So. 14 Chris Norcross So. 15 Markell Boston Jr. 17 McKenzie Martin So. 18 Carson Potter So. 19 Brett Anander So. 20 Jay McKnight Jr. 21 Malik Robinson Jr. 22 Quan Whatley Jr. 23 Reagan Thomas So. 24 Zaurione Crowder So. 25 Hunter Holmes Sr. 26 Kevin Lashley So. 27 Alex Portress Jr. 28 Cole Antley So. 29 Jeremy Ingram So. 30 Micah Flourney So. 31 Spencer Smith Sr. 32 Michael Dayton Sr. 33 Stephn Cruver So. 34 Dexter Boyd So. 36 Nick Fraser Jr. 37 Michael Taggart So. 38 Tyler Brown Sr. 39 Greg Williams So. 40 Alex Heard So. 41 Davis McCondichie So. 42 Issac Epps So. 43 Satchell Horton So. 44 Alex Branch So. 45 Tyler Poythress So. 46 Seth Williams So. 47 Andre Warner So. 48 Brock Meeker Jr. 50 Dartavyous Walker Jr. 51 Jamal Thomas So. 52 Devin Looney So. 53 Dakota Beasley So. 54 Tristan Mann So. 55 Nate Julian Jr. 56 Wyatt Martinez So. 57 Ryan Stewart So. 58 Jamarcus Wilson Jr. 59 Chris Burton Jr. 60 Michael Myers So. 61 Ryan Diederich Sr. 62 Cristian Torres So. 63 Luke Clayton Sr. 64 Charles Bush Jr. 65 Zeyad Allbban So. 66 Anthony Griggs So. 67 Corey Price Jr. 68 Matt Cheatham Sr. 69 Shawn Hawkins So. 70 Alex Naughton So. 72 Qua Fuller Jr. 73 John Searcy So. 74 Anfernee Burks Sr. 75 Zack Harness Sr. 76 Mailk Jackson So. 77 Anthony Parks Jr. 78 Sean Simmons So. 79 Ron Henderson S0.

80 Clifton Strong Sr. 81 E.J. Ransom So. 83 Colin Morganroth So. 84 Noah Rutherford So. 85 Sanoj Allen Jr. 86 Michael Singleton So. 87 Richard Farley So 88 Gameliel Bridges So. 89 Nick Bridges So.

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Wednesday, August 22, 2012 — The Newnan Times-Herald — 3B

Nutrition Facts Serving Size 1 team

2011 FINAL STATISTICS Record: 7-4, 4-3 in Region 2-AAAAA Points scored: 271/24.6 Points allowed: 180/16.3 Offense Rushing No. Name Att. Yds. Avg. TDs 3 Dee Godfrey 65 620 9.5 7 14 Garrett Schrepfer 94 389 4.1 8 7 Jay Warner 49 282 5.8 2 4 Michael Willis 32 250 7.4 4 30 Weylin Orr 39 216 5.5 3 24 Josh Penn 25 113 4.5 1 21 Jeremy Moss 11 72 6.5 0 6 Carl Dann 21 59 2.8 1 25 Willie Holloway 6 34 5.7 3 9 Deryas Jones 6 18 3.0 0 23 Travis Taylor 1 16 16.0 0 12 Allen Maraman 3 10 3.3 0 19 Bryce Ingram 1 1 1.0 1 43 Cole Trolinger 1 1 1.0 1 Totals 356 2,084 5.9 31 Passing Name Comp. Att. Yards TD INT Garrett Schrepfer 87 170 1,010 4 0 Allen Maraman 5 16 29 0 0 Totals 92 186 1,039 4 0 11.3

The 2012 East Coweta Indians At a Glance Head Coach: Clint Wade: (Fifth year, 28-16) Staff: Tom Gochenour (Assistant head coach, Offensive Coordinator, Offensive line), Ron Beaucham (Linebackers), Todd Beldon (Defensive backs, Kickers and Punters), Trace Overton (Tight Ends, Defensive Tackles), Darron Edwards (Defensive Backs), Roc Coleman (Running Back), Todd Kelley (Defensive Line), J.R. Revere (Quarterbacks), Andy Washington (Wide Receivers), Lloyd Knott (Head Trainer) Key Losses: DE Willie Holloway, QB Garrett Schrepfer, TE Cole Trolinger, FB Carl Dann S Michael Collins.

Strengths: Team brings backs two-way specialist Dee Godfrey, who was the leading rusher on offense and one of the leaders on defense with two interceptions.

Areas of Concern: Trying to replace 32 seniors, most who received some playing time last year. Some new players on both the offensive and defensive lines, and it could take them awhile to into the flow of things. It could just be a matter of getting some game experience.

Outlook: The Indians move into the six-team Region 3-AAAAAA that includes rival Newnan and powerhouse Tri-Cities but look out for Langston Hughes who has just about everybody back to also be in the hunt for one of the four playoff spots. The good news for the Indians is Dee Godfrey returns to the lineup on both sides of the ball Godfrey has been the Indians’ leading rusher the past two years. A year ago, he rushed for 620 yards and nine touchdowns on offense.

Defensively, he had 32 tackles and two interceptions. Bryce Gemmel

in as many years. “He has waited in the wings. we have him for two years with him so that should give us some stability. Should he be needed, Hamp Morris is ready to step in a play behind center too.”He executes really well. He has a good head on his shoulders.

Jake Bergstrom is the third string quarterback and will probably 2012 SCHEDULE start on the junior varsity.

Aug. 31 Henry County “He’s got the QBs going in the Sept. 7 Archer (Lawrenceville) right direction,” said Wade of quarSept. 14 At Sandy Creek terbacks coach J.R. Revere.

Sept. 21 Lovejoy Running backs: Dee Sept. 28 At Central, Phenix City, Godfrey is the Indians’ go-to guy in

Ala. Oct. 5 BYE the backfield. Godfrey has been the Oct. 12 At Westlake* team’s leading rusher the past two Oct. 19 Tri-Cities* years. One of the coaching staff’s Oct. 26 At Langston Hughes* objectives is to try and get the ball Nov. 2 At Douglas County* in his hands a little more without Nov. 9 Newnan* wearing him out. Since he plays on *Region 3-AAAAAA Game both sides of the line of scrimmage, Godfrey is going to spend a lot of time on the field. “We are going to 2011 RESULTS (7-4) have to find away to spell him Aug. 26 Chapel Hill W31-6 Sept. 2 At Pebblebrook W27-13 He’s the senior. We have to get Sept. 16 Troup W33-0 him the ball a little more. He has Sept. 23 At Luella* W37-8 a lot of energy and he is in great Sept. 30 Newton* W23-8 shape, Wade said.

Oct. 7 At Hughes* W35-14 When Godfrey comes out of the Oct 14 Westlake* L31-21 game, East Coweta will be able to Oct. 21 At Stephenson* L24-17 turn to Weylin Orr as its backup.

Oct. 28 M.L. King* L20-7 Orr rushed for 216 yards and three Nov. 4 At Newnan* W28-25 touchdowns in 2011. * Region 2-AAAAA Game Fullback: Replacing Carl Class AAAAA State Playoffs Nov. 11 At Colquitt Co. L35-10 Dann might be one of the biggest challenges facing the Indians this season. He only carried the ball 21 becomes the team’s third starttimes last season, but was the best ing quarterback in as many years.

Fortunately he has leading receiver blocker. Possible replacements are Malik Robinson, Michael Dayton Markel Boston returning to the lineup. A year ago, he lead the team and Tyler Brown.

“These guys can get out there on with 22 catches.

Position Breakdown the perimeter,” Wade said, Wide receiver: Markel OFFENSE Quarterback: Junior quarter- Boston was the Indians’ sureback Bryce Gemmel becomes the handed receiver last year and returns after making 22 catches, team’s third starting quarterback

GAME NIGHT OFFERS COLLECT ALL 10!

E. Coweta faces tough non-region schedule

INDIANS

punt. A year ago, Smith converted on 32 extra points and six field goals.

Continued from page 2B He also averaged 31.7 yards per punt.

Smith is also garnering the Devonte Parker, Alex attention of college scouts Portress and Kevin Lashley because of his ability to put are also in the mix at wide the ball in the end zone on receiver, but none of the wide field goals. receiver candidates had a “Spencer has been to a lot catch last year. of camps and he has a really A year ago, East Coweta strong leg” Wade said. “He threw to tight end Trolinger 10 can put the ball in the end times, but he gone now. leavzone, and we like that.” ing the door open for Senoj Smith put the ball in the end Allen and Brock Meeker to zone a couple of times durcompete for playing time. ing Thursday’s scrimmage at “It is an important position Whitewater. for us,” and these guys have Cole Antley steps in as the some really big shoes to fill,” backup kicker.

Wade said.

East Coweta begins play On the defensive side of in a new six-team Region the ball, with only Godfrey 3-AAAAA this season that back as a defensive starter, includes, rival Newnan and the Indians headed into camp Tri-Cities, both traditional with plenty of unanswered football powers. Westlake, questions on that side of the Langston Hughes and Douglas ball.

County are also in the region.

On the defensive line, With only six teams in the Anfernee Burks is expected to region, Wade has had to get a anchor the things with sever- little creative scheduling the al candidates on the offensive five non-region opponent. line expected to play on defenMost are yearly visitors to sive too. the playoffs as the non-region Linebackers Marcellus slate includes home games Parrott, Mario Clarke, and against Henry County and Terrence Bennett were all Archer (Lawrenceville). contributors last season that The Indians also face Sandy need to be replaced de to grad- Creek on the road and then uation. The unit’s other conLovejoy at home. tributor, Edwin Rivera, is now Lovejoy played for the Class at Trinity Christian.

AAAA title last season, going That leaves the door open undefeated until losing to for Nick Fraser, Jay McKnight Tucker in the championship. and Anthony Parks to step in East Coweta plays in most as well as some others who intriguing road game against could possibly step up.

Central in Phenix City, Ala on Boston and Nigel Gay are Sept. 28. also expected to play in the “They play in Class Indians’ defensive secondary.

AAAAAA and are one of the The Indians kicking game better teams in Alabama,” he remains one of the program’s said.”It just happened that strengths with senior Spencer we both had a date open that Smith coming back to kick and week,” Wade said.

Wade says the challenge earlier is just to get better.

“The five non-region games are not going to be easy,” Wade said. “We have our work cut out for us to say the least.

Every one of them made the playoffs last year.”

Among teams in the new region, Newnan (6-6) and TriCities (10-3) each made the playoffs.

Langston Hughes and Douglas County have struggled, but they are also in the region.

In the region preseason poll voted on by coaches and members of the media, Tri-Cities was picked to win the region title, with Newnan second and East Coweta third.

Wade admits his team is going through growing pains at times this season.

East Coweta showed some spark during last week’s scrimmage, but Wade knows it is going to be a work in progress.

“You really can’t gauge where you stand. It is going to take baby steps. We have a lot of puppies out there,” Wade said.

Even with the team going through some of its growing pains, Wade is happy with the team’s enthusiasm.

“They are working hard, and they have good attitudes, they are being really positive.

I am really pleased, the coaching staff is doing a really good job getting them where they are supposed to be, he said.

The key to a successful season for the Indians could be time.

“We just have a lot of young players who are inexperienced, and we just have to coach them up and get them ready,” Wade said.

grabbing one for a touchdown. Still, there is plenty of depth as Wyatt Potter, Nigel Gay, Devonte Parker, Alex Portress, and Kevin Lashley are set to step in this season and play.

Tight End: Cole Trolinger after making eight catches last season is gone leaving the door open for Senoj Allen and junior Brock Meeker to step and play at the tight end position.

Offensive line: The Indians are going to be a little green up front, but they won’t lack depth.

Zack Harness should be the leader (6-3, 270) up front, but players like Cliff Strong, Charles Bush, Qua Fuller and Jamarcus Wilson bring added depth to the line. Newcomers Dawson Ellis, Rod Henderson, Jamal Thomas and Tristen Mann should also get chances.

Defense Defensive line: Several guys from the offensive line will also jump over and play up front on defense as well, but it may be up to Anfernee Burks to anchor the defensive front. Both Strong and

Harness expect to play on both the offensive and defensive lines.

Secondary: Dee Godfrey returns to anchor the secondary after a banner year that saw to interceptions, but Boston will also play on both sides of the ball too.

Nigel Gay is also expected to see playing time in he secondary.

Linebackers: Like they are having to do in so many spots, the Indians are having to rebuild at linebacker as Marcellus Parrott, Mario Clarke, and Terrence Bennett have all graduated. That leaves the door open for Nick Fraser, Jay McKnight and Anthony Parks to step in as well as some others who could possibly step up.

Special Teams: Senior Spencer Smith is back to again handle both the place kicking and punting duties. Smith connected on six field goals and split the uprights on 32 extra points, His biggest asset is his ability to put the ball into the end zone on kickoffs. He also averaged 31.7 yards per punt. Cole Antley is the backup and is getting ready for his sophomore year.

Receiving Name Rec. Yds. Avg. TDs Markell Boston 22 258 11.7 1 Lajuwon Johnson 15 129 8.6 0 Michael Collins 10 184 18.4 1 Cole Trolinger 10 86 8.6 1 Travis Taylor 9 163 18.1 1 Carl Dann 8 76 9.5 0 Dee Godfrey 7 47 6.7 0 Michael Willis 6 50 8.3 0 Qwatrez Fenner 4 35 8.8 0 Jay Warner 1 11 11.0 0 Totals 92 1,020 11.4 4 Scoring No. Name TD EP FG 2pt Total 31 Spencer Smith 0 32 6 0 68 14 Garrett Schrepfer 8 0 0 1 50 3 Dee Godfrey 7 0 0 0 42 4 Michael Willis 4 0 0 0 24 25 Willie Holloway 3 0 0 1 20 30 Weylin Orr 3 0 0 0 18 43 Cole Trolinger 2 0 0 0 12 7 Jay Warner 2 0 0 0 12 23 Travis Taylor 1 0 0 0 6 15 Markel Boston 1 0 0 0 6 6 Carl Dann 1 0 0 0 6 17 Michael Collins 1 0 0 0 6 2 David Singleton 1 0 0 0 6 24 Josh Penn 1 0 0 0 6 19 Bryce Ingram 1 0 0 0 6 28 Cole Antley 0 1 0 0 1 Totals 35 31 5 2 261 DEFENSE Tackles No. Name Solo Asst. Total 17 Michael Collins 84 41 124 25 Willie Holloway 75 40 115 22 Marcellus Parrott 41 57 98 32 Jacquis Miller 45 33 78 45 Mario Clarke 23 39 62 43 Cole Trolinger 47 10 57 42 Edwin Rivera 22 27 49 54 Terrence Farmer 22 23 45 55 Rashaud Smith 20 18 38 3 Dee Godfrey 29 13 32 27 Terrence Bennett 17 13 30 2 David Singleton 28 7 35 9 Deryas Jones 7 6 13 50 D.J. Mosley 7 5 12 10 Jemarcus Godfrey 1 11 12 66 Billy Ray Brown 7 2 9 21 Jeremy Moss 4 3 7 7 Jay Warner 4 2 6 1 Lajuwon Johnson 6 2 8

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4B — The Newnan Times-Herald — Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Newnan Cougars

Region 3-AAAAAA Head coach: Mike McDonald

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1 team

Newnan offensive lineman work during position drills in preparation for Friday’s 2012 season opener against Marietta.

Photos by Jeffrey Leo

Staying the course

By CHRIS GOLTERMANN cgoltermann@newnan.com

Newnan head coach Mike McDonald feels he has “two pretty good dad gum safeties” in seniors Darrell Morrow, left, and Tray Matthews.

Matthews has been ranked in the top-10 in the nation at the position and continues to hold a verbal commitment to Georgia. Morrow has been what McDonald called “a spark plug.”

He’s not a talkative guy out there, but he kinda of leads by himself. He’s not the biggest guy, he’s not the fastest guy, he’s not the strongest guy. But he’s got a knack for being in the right place.”

C

onsecutive trips to the Class AAAAA state semifinals can certainly help the reputation of a high school football program, as it has in recent years at Newnan High.

Yet last year’s 6-6 mark — obviously less pleasing to the eye — may prove to be as beneficial to this year’s Cougars in the long run.

The importance of staying patient paid off for Newnan players in the Class AAAAA state playoffs, where the team lasted as long as any of the county’s five lineups to make the postseason in 2011. It meant pulling off a firstround 17-7 upset over Region 1-AAAAA champion Valdosta in Winnersville to the shock of the majority of high school football fans.

There was a stigma over the Cougars during much of last fall. It began with a 1-2 start to the season against non-region opponents with losses to Peachtree Ridge and Woodstock and ended with losses in four of their last five games huddled around the Valdosta upset.

Finishing as close to a sub .500 record since a 4-7 mark in 2005, Newnan’s schedule was quite the challenge for a lineup with 14 new starters including nine on offense. The stretch run included games against five programs with a combined 45-14 record.

Statistics, however, were no match for dealing with some of the frustration that 15, 16 and 17-year-olds can feel when they’re struggling to win football games during the first two or three weeks of the season, a situation the Cougars may be in again this year.

“You’ve got to be mature enough as a team.

You may take your lumps early, but can you be mature enough to overcome some of that adversity,” McDonald said. “Cause it creates some negativity. It’s also a challenge in that ‘Hey, if it doesn’t go the way we want to, do you have enough character to hold that thing together?’”

The schedule, as head coach Mike McDonald put it, starts with three “boogers” in Marietta, LaGrange and Sandy Creek. All three should be as good as 2011 or a nose ahead over last year’s record.

“When you’re playing real good teams, some on the outside looking in would say I’d rather be 3-0. And the kids in the school, that’s all they care about, being 3-0.” McDonald said. “ That’s the thing about playing tough people early. It lets you know where you’re at.”

It’ll be a third consecutive season with a new starting quarterback as well as a bulk of new faces on offense for the Cougars. The change in that trend this year, however, is that it’s a sophomore under center for the first time in McDonald’s head coaching career.

Left-hander Bailey Bryant, at 6-3, 180

pounds, has been the heir apparent since attending spring practice as an eighth grader.

With a similar frame to graduating senior Nick Smith, who threw for 1,640 yards and 14 touchdowns in his only varsity season, Bryant also expects to be more of a pocket passes as Newnan shifts a little bit away from an optionoriented offense.

“We’re not going to be as much option as what we were on offense. That’s not Bailey’s strength. We’re still going to have it in there,” McDonald said. “It’s not going to be what it was like last year, but I guess you can look at it as we’re going to be more like we were a couple years back. We’re not going to sling it every down like they did back then.”

The newcomer’s preseason debut, which saw him connecting on 10 of 15 attempts for 154 yards, a touchdown and no interceptions, was an immediate hint of Bryant’s potential.

Watching Smith — who went through the same process last year as a senior in his only year as a starter — may have helped Bryant while watching his former teammate from the sidelines last year as a backup.

“But the maturity level,” McDonald went on, “it’s a big difference. But we knew Bailey was going to be the guy. That’s why we brought him up [as an eighth grader] and brought him along. It was very beneficial.”

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! s r a g u o C o G

If any position could take the pressure off Newnan’s first-year quarterback, it might be the return of sophomore J.K. Britt and senior Quinton Dix in the offensive backfield.

Brought along slowly last year behind departing senior Bryant Ball, the pair were making a considerable impact by the end of last year, enough for the Cougars staff to move Ball back to linebacker full time for the playoffs.

Dix (5-9, 235) finished with 105 carries for 613 yards and two touchdowns while Britt (5-11, 177) had 244 yards on 53 attempts with four scores.

“They’re playmakers and we’ve got to get them the ball,” McDonald said. “It’s been big having those two guys back.”

Newnan was hit hard by graduation among last year’s receiving corps, losing its top three performers — Cody Darracott, Jalen Bolton and Ty Colton. The trio combined for all 14 receiving touchdowns and 76-percent of their quarterback’s passing yards in 2011.

Returning senior Traon Moss (5-11, 165) leads this year’s corps after making 17 catches for 173 yards last season, “and he’s had a wonderful camp,” said McDonald. “I’m anxious to see what he can do out there.”

Starting defensive safeties Tray Matthews and Darrell Morrow will get a chance to contribute on offense for the first time and imme-

2012 Newnan High Roster 1 Rodney Tennie DB 5-6 156 Sr. 2 Drew Morris WR 5-9 145 Sr. 3 Diamond Jones QB-WR 5-8 140 Jr. 4 Joe Ballard QB/WR 5-8 138 Fr. 5 Micah Hairston RB/DB 5-6 148 Jr. 6 Chrishawn Dix WR/DB 5-7 165 Jr. 7 Zach Echols RB 5-7 155 Sr. 8 Tim Hardaway WR/DB 5-9 164 Jr. 9 Brandon Tennie OLB 5-7 185 Jr. 10 Bailey Bryant QB 6-3 180 So. 11 Tyler Mulvenna K 5-11 158 Sr. 12 Traon Moss WR 5-11 165 Sr. 13 Hosea Connally WR 5-8 150 Jr. 14 Elisah Bowles QB 5-9 165 So. 15 Sanchez Woods RB/DB 5-10 168 Sr. 16 Darrell Morrow DB/WR 5-9 178 Sr. 17 Kelvin Khayyam LB 5-10 180 So. 18 Jacob Randig DB 5-10 178 So. 19 Trey Walker WR 5-9 140 So. 20 Terence Geter LB 5-5 154 Jr. 21 Chad Ferdinand RB 5-8 200 Sr. 23 Kamarezion Mathis WR 5-6 136 Jr. 24 Tonaris Portress OLB 5-10 204 Jr. 25 Corey Bryant LB 5-5 187 So. 26 Emanuel Bridges LB 6-0 195 Fr. 27 Quinton Dix RB 5-9 235 Sr. 28 Tray Matthews DB/WR 6-1 186 Sr. 29 Franciso Williams DB 5-6 135 So. 30 O’Koye Robinson RB 5-8 187 Sr. 31 Josh Hill OLB 5-9 165 Jr. 32 Cameron Walker LB 5-7 204 Sr. 33 Darius Martin ILB 5-8 207 Sr. 34 Tristian Bridges DB 5-9 146 Jr. 35 Conner Cox K 5-11 145 Jr. 37 Nick Lamoureaux WR 5-9 137 So. 38 Stephon Brownle DB 5-8 169 Jr. 39 J. K. Britt RB/DB 5-11 177 So. 40 Willie Boston TE/DE 6-1 170 Sr. 41 Danquez Sinkfield DE 6-0 182 So. 42 D’Shon Rosser WR/DB 5-11 183 Fr. 43 Mitchell Burk WR/DB 5-9 150 So. 44 Urian Woods RB 5-10 212 So. 45 Darius Johnson OLB 5-8 170 Sr. 46 Randell Arnold OLB 5-7 155 So. 47 Damion Key OLB/RB 5-8 172 So. 48 Jervonte Gates ILB 5-10 182 So. 49 Maurice White ILB 5-8 224 Sr. 50 Austin Chaffin DE 5-11 182 So. 51 Caleb McHugh OLB 5-2 149 So. 52 William Langley ILB 5-9 185 So. 53 Josh Moreno OL 5-5 225 So. 54 Ricky Kirkland DL 5-10 215 Sr. 56 Myles Moran OL 5-11 256 Jr. 57 David Raschen OL 6-4 290 Sr. 59 Xavier Phillips OL 5-7 271 Sr. 62 James Merritt LB 5-7 212 Jr. 64 Steven Quesinberry OL/DL 6-0 174 So. 65 Jay Russell OL 5-10 249 Sr. 66 Tyler Beno OL 5-8 183 Jr. 67 Darius Render OL 5-8 256 Sr. 68 Dalton Youngblood OL 5-10 268 So. 69 Christian Shellabarger OL 6-0 206 So. 70 Rudy Hernandez OL 5-11 230 Jr. 71 James Godfrey OL 5-9 254 So. 72 Jamal Carlisle OL 6-1 287 Sr. 73 Ronald Grooms OL 6-1 375 Jr. 74 Tyler Moody OL 6-1 230 So. 75 Anfenney Turner OL/DL 6-2 260 Jr. 76 Mark Harris DE/OL 5-11 228 Jr. 77 Josh Coffman OL 6-2 279 So. 78 Jamal Hill OL 5-9 282 So. 80 Jonathan Martin WR 5-7 220 Jr. 81 Walker Sandlin TE 5-10 220 Jr. 84 Dondrikus Arnold DB 5-11 180 Jr. 85 Mike Buckhanna WR/DB 5-6 146 So. 86 Erik Bounasis WR 5-4 137 Jr. 87 Austin Brumby WR 5-11 145 Jr. 88 Tyler Akers WR 5-6 140 So. 89 Dalton Bunn WR 5-11 165 Sr. 93 Rufus Neely DL 6-3 308 Fr. 95 Michael Durant K 6-1 160 So. 98 William Wimbley K 5-8 149 So. 99 Hunter Bless P 6-1 176 Fr. diately seemed comfortable in the team’s preseason scrimmage.

A year ago, Newnan didn’t have a tight end post a reception but instead used a group led by graduating senior Nick Cameron to open holes for its top trio of running backs. Senior Willie Boston(6-1, 170) and Maurice White along with junior Tonaris Portress — all of whom will play big roles on defense — can all rotate in with the chance to make big plays.

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2011 FINAL STATISTICS Record: 6-6, 4-3 in Region 2-AAAAA Points scored: 276/23.0 Points allowed: 249/20.8 Offense Rushing No. Name Att. Yds. Avg. TDs 42 Bryant Ball 144 841 5.8 11 27 Quinton Dix 105 613 5.8 2 39 J.K. Britt 53 244 4.6 4 5 Cody Darracott 24 132 5.5 0 9 Nick Smith 42 29 - 0.7 2 4 Jalen Bolton 4 13 3.3 0 7 Ty Colton 1 3 3.0 0 Totals 374 1878 5.0 19

The 2012 Newnan CougarS at a Glance Head Coach: Mike McDonald (fourth season, 26-12; Staff: Kenny Morris (Offensive coordinator), Jeff Bryant (Co-defensive coordinator) Lavarett Pearson (Co-defensive coordinator), Chris Ramsey (Defensive line), Jerry Allen (Wide receivers), Hap Hines (Running backs), Randy Padgett (Offensive line), Bob Sandlin (Kickers), Jason Earwood (Tight ends), Dustin Alley (Outside linebackers)s Offensive Formation: Multiple Defensive Formation: 3-5-3 Strengths: Defensive secondary led by standout safeties; Veteran linebacker corps; Two established running backs. Program has won at least one playoff game every year since 2007 and hasn’t missed postseason since 2005.

Areas of Concern: First-year quarterback on offense that lost top-3 receives to graduation; New faces on both sides of line. Team lost top-4 defensive lineman from 2011.

All-State punter/kicker needs to be replaced.

Key Losses: RB/LB Bryant Ball (841 yds. rush, 11 TD), QB Nick Smith (1,640 pass yds. 14 TD, All-Region Second Team), WR Cody Darracott (529 rec yds, 5 TDs; All-Region 2-AAAAA First Team), WR Jalen Bolton (425 rec. yds, 6 TD, All-Region Second Team), WR Ty Colton (298 rec. yds, 3 TDs), DT James Primm (All-Region First Team, 93 tackles, 9 sacks), P/K Patrick McAlpin (All-Region First Team), LB Nick Cameron (64 tackles, All-County), OL/DL Aundre Morgan (48 tackles, 8 sacks; All-Region Second Team; West Georgia), DL Diamond Leslie (6 sacks; Faulkner University).

Outlook Not unlike the last two seasons, Newnan enters the fall with a new starting quarterback and a lot of new faces in key areas. This year, a key will be solidifying both sides of the line, especially after the Cougars lost their top four defensive contributors up front. Safeties Tray Matthews and Darrell Morrow are centerpieces among six returning starters on

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2012 SCHEDULE Friday At Marietta Aug. 31 LaGrange Sept. 7 Sandy Creek Sept. 14 At Troup Sept. 28 Hardaway Oct. 12 At Tri-Cities* Oct. 19 Langston Hughes* Oct. 26 Douglas County* Nov. 2 At Westlake* Nov. 9 At East Coweta* *Region 3-AAAAAA Game 2011 RESULTS (6-6) Aug. 25 At LaGrange W27-6 Sept. 9 At Peachtree Ridge L28-16 Sept. 16 Woodstock L17-14 Sept. 24 At Newton W21-7 Sept. 30 Hughes* W38-21 Oct. 7 At Westlake* W33-7 Oct. 14 Luella* W34-20 Oct. 21 M.L. King* L41-17 Oct. 28 At Stephenson* L35-13 Nov. 4 East Coweta* L28-25 * Region 2-AAAAA Game Class AAAAA State Playoffs Nov. 11 At Valdosta W17-7 Nov. 18 At Dacula L32-21 defense, which should be able to offset a more inexperienced offense that may need a little more time to gel early. First-year starting quarterback Bailey Bryant and his squad, however, also proved it could handle the challenge in last week’s scrimmage win over Griffin.

In all, it would take a horrendous turn of events for Newnan’s string of seven consecutive playoff appearances to be snapped in a six-team Region 3-AAAAAA alignment. Despite some parity, the Cougars’ talent puts them in the top half of the division.

POSITION BREAKDOWN QUARTERBACK: Newnan has handled transition at quarterback as good as any college program with a list of talented alumni including Tyler Horne, Thomas Darrah, Russell Powell, Lendell Arnold and Nick Smith — all of whom went on to earn athletic scholarships in football, basketball or baseball.

In that sense, 6-3, 180-pound sophomore Bailey Bryant should be in good company. After starting on the junior varsity as a freshman last year, Bryant didn’t attempt a live varsity throw against an opponent until last Friday’s scrimmage, but went 10 of 15 for 154 yards and a touchdown.

“He’s a hard worker, conscientious,” said Newnan head coach Mike McDonald of Bryant. “He’s going to be watching film every morning.

RUNNING BACK: If any position could take the pressure off Newnan’s first-year quarterback, it might be the return of sophomore J.K. Britt (5-11, 177) and senior Quinton Dix (5-9, 235) in the offensive backfield.

Brought along slowly last year behind departing senior Bryant Ball, the pair were making a considerable impact by the end of last year, enough for the Cougars staff to move Ball back to linebacker full time for the playoffs.

The group should gain some depth this year with the addition of another bruising back, 5-8, 187-pound O’Koye Robinson. Junior Terrence Geter (5-5, 154) is described as “more of a scat back,” said McDonald.

“Terrence can give you some things in there that he can really hurt you,” McDonald added.

Senior Chad Fernandez (5-8, 200) will also have an opportunity to get involved in the offense.

WIDE RECEIVERS: Returning senior Traon Moss (5-11, 165) leads this year’s corps and had at least three receptions during the first half of Friday’s scrimmage.

Starting defensive safeties Tray Matthews and Darrell Morrow seemed well adjusted in the team’s preseason scrimmage while playing

Carlisle returns on O-line COUGARS

side. “I think both of those as Cougar offensive linemen. guys are taking well to that,” Newnan entered the spring with its defense a step ahead said McDonald. of the offense, especially with Seniors Darius Martin (5-8, Continued from page 4B five starters back. The unit 207) and Cameron Walker may have to carry the team (5-8, 204) are fighting at the “You’re going to see us with during the early schedule Will and junior Josh Hill (5-9, a tight end more that we did in while Bryant and company 165) also has a chance to gain the past,” McDonald said. begin to gain momentum. playing time. Junior Terrence Bryant may be receiving the “We’re going to have to Geter (5-5, 154) also seems brunt of attention at Newnan really play great on defense ready to contribute on defense this fall in a high-profile posiearly, until our offense finds along with junior Brandon tion. But no Cougar may be its way. Bailey’s going to be a Tennie (5-7, 165) and senior more important to his success great player,” McDonald said. newcomer Darius Johnson. than 6-3, 290-pound senior “I think by the time we hit “We’ve got a little more right tackle Jamal Carlisle (6-1, region play, we can be a really depth there,” said McDonald.

287), who will be tasked with good team.

“It’s a good group.” protecting the southpaw quarIf there was a calming presThe biggest changes, both terback’s blind side. ence - at least to Newnan - it’d in size and personnel, comes “Jamal’s kind of the veteran be in its two talented senior up front after Newnan lost its of the bunch and it’s good to safeties Tray Matthews and have that back,” McDonald Darrell Morrow. Most already top four contributors on the defensive line led by Timessaid. know plenty about Matthews Senior David Raschen also (6-1, 190), who has been ranked Herald Co-Defensive Player of the Year James Primm. Last proved a capable starter while among the top-10 prep playrotating in last season, adders at his position and is being year’s leading tackler had nine of the 29 1/2 sacks produced by ing a sizable 6-4, 290-pound highly sought out by Georgia frame at left guard. Raschen and Auburn with the Bulldogs Newnan linemen.

“Primm kinda came out of will probably have to move to currently in the lead, having tackle some with Carlisle and nowhere and was dominant,” given a verbal commitment Anfenney Turner (6-2, 265) McDonald. “He was a high last year. also expected to start the year motor guy.”

It’s hard to say what our on the defensive line.

Carlisle will be counted on strength is on defense, but Two more seniors have to fill Primm’s role as the nose Darrell and Tray are two worked their way into the man. Senior Willie Boston, pretty dadgum good safeties,” starting lineup. Jay Russell who despite being undersized McDonald said.

(5-10, 249) played at right for a defensive lineman, “ Morrow (5-9, 178) may benguard next to Carlisle durefit from quarterbacks tryhad played well according to ing the preseason scrimmage. ing to avoid throwing in the McDonald.

Center Myles Moran (5-11, direction of his teammate.

“He doesn’t have the bulk 205) has put in extra work in Both seniors had intercepthat we like, but he underthe weight room to become tions in last Friday’s scrimstands leverage.” the Cougars’ starting center mage against a talented Griffin Turner and Mark Harris to fill a big hole left by former offense.

(5-11, 228) are the frontrunners teammate Mason Brantley to “That happened a lot in pass- for the other end spot. Senior graduation. ing league,” said McDonald of Xavier Phillips (5-6, 271) will “He’s just one of those ‘want Morrow.. “Darrell’s done a lot play a good amount of noseto’ guys,” said McDonald of of maturing in the four years guard along with big freshMoran. “He might not be the he’s been here and he’s the one man Rufus Neely (6-3, 308), most talented guy in the world, kid that I’ve been very, very who is recovering from a torn but he’s going to fight you proud of. He’s kind of been our meniscus. every second. He fell in love spark plug. He’s not a talkative Special teams, meanwhile, with the weight room.” guy out there, but he kinda of were an even bigger question Turner, a 6-2, 265-pound leads by himself. He’s not the mark heading into the spring junior, also expects to be play- biggest guy, he’s not the fastest after losing All-Region punter ing on both sides of the ball guy, he’s not the strongest guy. and kicker Patrick McAlpin. and has been a “pleasant surBut he’s got a knack for being Senior Tyler Mulvenna (5-11, prise” at left tackle. in the right place at the right Another junior, Ricky time. And he’s pretty physical.” 154), however, has “by far been Kirkland (5-10, 215), has a Seniors Rodney Tennie (5-6, our most improved player,” chance to get a fair share of 156) and Sanchez Woods (5-10, said McDonald. “He has really done just a nice job.” snaps at right guard after bat168) will work at the corners.

Mulvenna’s first two varsity tling with Russell in the preTennie has the most experipunts in last week’s scrimmage season. Mark Harris and soph- ence while Britt can also see against Griffin both were omore Christian Shellabarger time in the secondary. downed inside the 5-yard line. are among a group waiting in One of the program’s most “When he started, he had the wings for a chance to con- consistent positions in recent years, the Cougars are shifting trouble kicking an extra point,” tribute on offense. a pair of veteran starters, mov- McDonald said. “It’s been Junior Tyler Beno (5-8, amazing to see how far he’s 183) is waiting in the wings at ing junior Tonaris Portress (5-10, 204) to middle lineback- come. We’re at a point now center while following older er and shifting senior Maurice where we’d be comfortable brothers Ray (Georgia Tech) attempting field goals.” and Chris (Shorter University) White (5-8, 224) to the strong

offense for the first time. Despite having a catchable ball drop in the end zone from Bailey, Matthews caught two balls including a 41-yard strike down the sidelines that helped set up a touchdown. Morrow equally showed his athleticism, catching a short pass for a touchdown and making another leaping grab on a ball that eventually was knocked from his hands for a fumble.

Senior Drew Morris (5-9, 145) will also get a chance to line up and Newnan’s depth at running back will allow Britt to move to a slot receiver.

TIGHT END: Senior Willie Boston (6-1, 170) leads a group that includes fellow defenders Tonaris Portress, Maurice White and Darius Martin.

While tight ends in Newnan’s offense are primarily used as an extra blocker (the position did not have a single reception in 2011) all four have the ability to make plays in the passing game.

OFFENSIVE LINE: Jamal Carlisle, an All-Region honorable mention, is a two-year starter and the lone returner who saw action in every game. But a unit coached by first-year assistant Randy Padgett could be eight to 10 deep by midseason.

Senior David Raschen (6-4, 290) is slated to start at left guard. Raschen will probably have to move to tackle some with Carlisle and Anfenney Turner also expected to start the year on the defensive line.

Senior Jay Russell (5-10, 249) played at right guard next to Carlisle during the preseason scrimmage.

Center Myles Moran (5-11, 256) has put in extra work in the weight room to become the Cougars’ starting center .

Turner, a 6-2, 260 junior has been a “pleasant surprise” at left tackle.

Junior Ricky Kirkland, has a chance to get a fair share of snaps at right guard. Others that could play a role include Mark Harris and sophomore Christian Shellabarger, as well as junior Tyler Beno (5-8, 183).

DEFENSE Defensive Line: While the position is Newnan’s biggest question mark after losing the top-four performers on a tenacious defensive

Passing Name Comp. Att. Yards TD INT 9 Nick Smith 142 227 1,640 14 4 Totals 142 227 1,640 14 4

front, the new faces have shined so far. Turner helped force a safety in the preseason scrimmage against Griffin and junior Mark Harris (5-11, 228) recovered a fumble. Jamal Carlisle also has a chance to make an impact at nose guard where James Primm (9 sacks) became a huge asset last year.

Those three are joined by senior Willie Boston. Along with Carlisle, senior Xavier Phillips (5-7, 271) will play a good amount of noseguard along with freshman Rufus Neely (6-3, 308), who is recovering from a torn meniscus.

Linebackers: The Cougars are shifting a pair of veteran starters, moving junior Tonaris Portress (5-10, 204) to middle linebacker and shifting senior Maurice White (5-8, 224) to the strong side. Seniors Darius Martin (5-8, 207) and Cameron Walker (5-7, 204) are fighting at the Will and junior Josh Hill (5-9, 165) also has a chance to gain playing time. Junior Terrence Geter (5-5, 154) also seems ready to contribute on defense along with junior Brandon Tennie (5-7, 185) and senior newcomer Darius Johnson (5-8, 170).

Defensive backs: The region may not have a team with two more talented safeties than seniors Tray Matthews (6-1, 186) and Darrell Morrow (5-9, 178). Seniors Rodney Tennie (5-6, 156) and Sanchez Woods (5-10, 168) will rotate at the corners. Tennie has the most experience while running back J.K. Britt can also see time in the secondary.

Special Teams Along with defensive line, an opening at kicker and punter may have been Newnan’s other major question mark coming into the season. Senior Tyler Mulvenna, however, has “by far been our most improved player,” said McDonald. “He has really done just a nice job.”

The Cougars soccer standout’s first two varsity punts both were downed inside the 5-yard line. Freshman Hunter Bless is being groomed as a future replacement.

Receiving Name Rec. Yds. Avg. TDs 5 Cody Darracott 35 529 15.1 5 4 Jalen Bolton 34 425 12.5 6 7 Ty Colton 20 298 14.9 3 12 Treon Moss 17 173 10.2 0 42 Bryant Ball 13 70 5.4 0 39 J.K. Britt 3 55 18.3 0 19 Semaj Allen 4 32 8.0 0 Totals 92 1,020 11.4 4 Scoring No. Name TD EP FG 2pt Total 42 Bryant Ball 11 0 0 0 66 17 Patrick McAlpin 0 23 4 0 35 5 Cody Darracott 5 0 0 0 30 4 Jalen Bolton 4 0 0 0 18 39 J.K. Britt 3 0 0 0 18 24 Tonaris Portress 2 0 0 0 12 7 Ty Colton 3 0 0 0 12 26 Austin Hurler 0 5 3 0 14 9 Nick Smith 2 0 0 0 6 27 Quinton Dix 1 0 0 0 6 43 Nick Cameron 1 0 0 0 6 55 Aundre Morgan 1 0 0 0 6 1 Rodney Tennie 1 0 0 0 6 Totals 34 28 7 1 255 DEFENSE Tackles No. Name Solo Asst. Total 47 James Primm 57 30 87 28 Tray Matthews 52 22 74 43 Nick Cameron 35 29 64 49 Maurice White 32 30 62 16 Darrell Morrow 37 14 51 55 Aundre Morgan 30 18 48 88 Diamond Leslie 27 14 41 24 Tonarius Portress 26 15 41 93 Nick Wood 19 16 35 6 Antonio Benton 29 4 33 33 Darius Martin 18 6 24 23 Reggie Hightower 14 7 21 1 Rodney Tennie 16 5 21 42 Bryant Ball 14 9 23 29 Deion Poythress 9 2 11 79 Reyes Ellis 6 4 10 34 Tristan Bridges 6 2 8 54 Kenny Johnson 3 3 6 75 Anfenney Turner 2 1 3 32 Cameron Walke r 2 1 3 35 Tae Kemp 1 1 2 44 Justin Gates 2 0 2 97 Troy Owens 1 0 1 40 Willie Boston 1 0 1 72 Jamal Carlisle 0 1 1 Sacks James Primm 9 Aundre Morgan 8 Diamond Leslie 6 Nick Wood 5 1/2 Darius Martin 4 Nick Cameron 1 Tonarius Portress 1

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6B— The Newnan Times-Herald — Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Northgate Vikings

Region 4-AAAAA Head coach: Tommy Walburn

In Their Defense

BY DOUG GORMAN dgorman@newnan.com

T

imes have changed at Northgate.

A year ago, the Vikings offense helped carry the team to a undefeated regular season title, a Region 3-AAAA championship and a trip into the second round of the playoffs with two 1,000-yards rushers who just happened to share Newnan Times Herald Offensive Players of the Year honors.

Now that running backs Alex Lakes has taken his game to the Air Force Academy and Payton Usher will play for Mercer’s first football program in more than 70 years, the Vikings are moving on with a team that might just be centered around its stingy defense that gave up just 11 points per game in 2011.

The Vikings are also entering the season with a new quarterback in the mix.

Northgate’s 11-1 season was the best in school history, but head coach Tommy Walburn says it is important for the team to move on and turn its focus on this fall instead of looking back and basking in the glory of last season.

“Here is the way we need to look at last season,” Walburn said. “We are excited for our players, we are excited for football program, we are excited for our school, and I am excited for our community.

We have great fans. But at the same time, we are on a journey, and we haven’t reached the destination yet. We have to start worrying about this year.

We have a lot of players coming back, but the chemistry of every football team is different. We have to do it on our on merits this year.”

The Vikings defense puts three Division I prospects on the field this year, including a pair of defensive lineman that are expected to sign with SEC schools. They include defensive tackle De’Andre “Moose’ Johnson — who has verbally committed to the University of Georgia — at is 6-4, and tips the scales at 340 pounds. Also playing at end for the Vikings is Sean Spencer, who has battled injuries in his sophomore and junior years and is healthy now and committed to Vanderbilt.

Brandon Facyson has committed to Virginia Tech and will start in the secondary for the Vikings. Facyson made a commitment to play for Frank Beamer during a weekend visit this summer after first gaining an offer during a camp in Blacksburg before his junior year.

One of the things that could benefit Northgate this year is the versatility of the defensive linemen “Our defensive lineman are interchangeable,” Walburn said, “The type of defense we play, sometimes our guys can play end or tackle.”

Spencer returns to the end spot after missing the bulk of the past two seasons after getting injured against Fayette County both years, the latter of which was a torn ACL in mid

Photos by Jeffrey Leo

Fresh off an 11-1 season, Northgate is hoping to continue its recent success this season while making the jump to Class AAAAA. The Vikings return the bulk of their defense

Offensive coordinator Kesley Dalrymple watches running backs go through drills during practice during the preseason, which will close on Friday with a scrimmage at Veterans in Warner Robins.

September last fall.

“Thankfully, we are not playing Fayette County again,” Walburn joked.

Despite the two injuries, Spencer has attracted major college attention, thanks to his good grades and large 6-4, 260 frame.

“Whenever he does any type of testing, for a guy his size, he is off the charts,” Walburn said.

“His knees should be stronger this year, and he has had a great offseason. We were going to hold him out in the spring, but he and his parents came to me and wanted to practice.”

Johnson, who has battled his own bumps and bruises during the early portion of preseason

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drills, will start at defensive tackle while expecting to join a growing pipeline of Coweta players to Athens.

Johnson has spent a lot of time running during the summer and Walburn thinks that will help him late in games.

“We feel like he is going to start the season in tip-top running condition,” Walburn said, “A lot of times those big guys have problems at the beginning of the year. I don’t care what level of football you are in.

This time he appears in football shape at the start of the season.”

Senior Zack Burrell and Sylvester Johnson will share the duties at right tackle.

NEW

Blake McCollum will play at the other end on defense.

Leading the way at linebacker for the Vikings will be Connor Usher who battled a finger injury during the preseason and was out early after getting stitches in his hands.

“He is the heart and soul of our defense,” Walburn said.

“He might be the smartest defensive player I have ever coached.”

A year ago, Usher was third on the team with 103 tackles and had a team-best six sacks.

“He just has a nose for the football,” Walburn said.

Ryan Fagerstrom will play the Sam linebacker is in his second year with the pro-

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Northgate Vikings Roster No. Player Pos. Yr. 1 Malik Wade DB So 2 Brandon Facyson WR So 3 Marquis Jennings TE Jr 4 Michael Willis RB Sr 5 Sylvester Johnson DL Sr 6 Matt Smith DB Jr 7 Armond Upshaw DB Jr 8 Andrew Brady WR Sr 9 Torres Johnson DB Jr 10 Jay Madison RB So 11 Christian Gaston WR Jr 12 Chris Johnson DL Sr 13 Aaron Stargell DB Sr 14 Tyler Rowland QB So 15 Michael Matthews DB So 16 Patrick Orman QB So 17 William Lewis DB Sr 18 Josh Harrison QB Sr 19 Adrian Tolbert DE Sr 20 Cole Carter RB Sr 21 Kevin Teasley RB So 23 Connor Usher LB Sr 24 Braden Harbuck WR Sr 26 Austin Burgess DB Jr 28 Kyle Henderson WR Sr 32 David Noe OLB So 34 Dalton Lane OLB So 38 Jake Humphries TE Jr 39 Cody Carlock OLB So 40 Alex Rose DL Jr 41 Benton Washington RB Jr 42 Hunter Eskew OLB Jr 43 Devon Nash DL Jr 44 Chase West OLB So 45 Ryan Fagerstrom LB Jr 47 Jamie Skalski K Fr 50 T.J. Womack OL Jr 51 Jackson Dorman LB So 52 Dustin Foley OL Sr 53 John Proctor OL Jr 54 Justin Carlock DL Sr 55 Blake McCollum DE Sr 56 Dylan Huffman OL So 57 Victor Taggart OL So 58 Alex Norton OL So 59 Dakota Wolfe OL So 60 Aaron Seabrook OL Jr 61 Jared Monk OL So 62 Jacob Wolf OL Jr 64 Aaron Carr OL Jr 65 Chase Smith OL Sr 66 Nebiyou Maddox DL Sr 67 Alex Rock OL Jr 69 Nick Abbadangelo OL Sr 70 Justin Ayers OL Sr 71 Jonathan Fleckenstein OL Sr 72 Bryce Harper OL So 73 Grant Gower OL Jr 74 Christian Hand OL So 75 Nick Heavner DL Jr 76 Sean Spencer DE Sr 77 Rashad Menefee DE Sr 78 Austin Green OL Sr 80 Jaelin Ware WR Jr 82 Isreal Bolton WR Jr 83 Zach Burrell DL Sr

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gram. Fagerstrom steps in and replaces Leon Sapp, who was Northgate’s leading tackler with 122, including 72 solo tackles.

Andrew Brady moves to outside linebacker this season, replacing a starting job held

by Jonovan Cotton most of last year before he was injured.

Dalton Lane will play the other outside linebacker.

“Dalton caught our eye in the spring as one of the most improved players we have coming back,” Walburn said, Malik Wade and Adrian Tolbert will also help give depth to the linebacking unit.

Tolbert, who plays basketball for the Vikings, but is dressing out with the football team for the first time, will also play some at defensive end. Jackson Dorman has also caught the attention of the coaching staff at linebacker.

The secondary could be the strength of the defensive unit led by Facyson who had two interceptions and three pass breakups.

“We got all three guys, coming back, but they are kids, and you have to keep working with them,” Walburn said.

Torres Johnson will lineup at safety for the Vikings. A year ago, he had 114 tackles and two interceptions.

“At the beginning of last year, we sort of platooned him with Alex Lakes, but as the year went on he caught on so quick, we could just use Alex on offense.

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Nutrition Facts Serving Size 1 team

2011 FINAL STATISTICS Record: 11-1, 7-0 Points scored: 426/35.5 Points allowed: 143/11.9 Offense Rushing Name Att. Yds. Avg. TDs Alex Lakes 185 1,270 6.0 19 Payton Usher 142 1,019 7.4 17 Kyle Kovacs 64 386 6.0 7 Tony Williams 22 118 5.4 2 Benton Washington 17 89 5.2 1 Marquis Jennings 20 72 3.6 0 Brett Misutka 21 54 2.6 2 Cole Carter 4 24 6.0 0 Josh Harrison 5 18 3.6 0 Totals 508 3,055 6.0 48 Passing Name Comp. Att. Yards TD INT Brett Misutka 53 75 967 10 2 Josh Harrison 0 3 0 0 1 Totals 53 75 967 10 2 Receiving Name Rec. Yds. Avg. TDs Brandon Facyson 18 294 16.3 4 Mitch Bemister 11 205 18.6 3 Payton Usher 11 207 18.8 1 Alex Lakes 10 138 13.8 1 Kyle Kovacs 4 133 33.3 1 Totals 53 967 18.2 10

Photo courtesy of Eric Richards/Richards Photography

The 2012 Northgate Vikings at a Glance Head coach: Tommy Walburn (third season, 15-6) Overall: 78-46 overall.

Staff: Bubba Jeter (defensive coordinator), Kelsey Dalrymple (offensive coordinator, running backs), Adrian Anderson (defensive backs), Lee Golden (linebacker), Justin Crews (quarterbacks, special teams coordinator), Marcellious Johnson (linebackers), Derek Rials (receivers, tight ends).

Offensive Formation: Wing-T Defensive Formation: 8-man front Strengths. Just about everybody comes back on defense, including three Division I prospects in senior defensive linemen De’Andre Johnson and Sean Spencer, and cornerback Brandon Facyson. The unit that allowed just 11 points per game en route to a 11-1 record and a region championship should be hard to score on again this year.

Areas of concern: Some inexperience on the offensive side of the football. Gone from last year are Newnan Times-Herald Co-Offensive Players of the Year running backs Alex Lakes and Payton Usher. Lakes rushed for 1,270 yards and 19 touchdowns, while Usher finished with 1,019 yards and 17 touchdowns.

Quarterback Brett Misutka passed for 967 yards and 10 TDs. There are also some question marks in the kicking and punting game as Wil Lutz has graduated.

Key Losses: FB Kyle Kovacs, RB Alex Lakes (Air Force), RB Payton Usher (Mercer), QB Brett Misutka, OL Jake Slagle (Lenoir Rhyne), OLB D’Lonzo Harris (Fort Valley State), LB Leon Sapp (Reinhardt), OLB Jonovon Cotton (Fort Valley), K Wil Lutz (Georgia State)

Photo by Jeffrey Leo

Linebacker Connor Usher “is sort of the heart and soul of our defense” said head coach Tommy Walburn.

Position Breakdown: Offense Quarterback: After waiting in the wings the past few season, senior quarterback Josh Harrison finally gets his chance to step in and play under center for the Vikings.

“He has a good understanding of the offense,” Walburn said. He has been waiting around for awhile and now it is his turn.

Harrison was able to get into several games last season after the Vikings built leads, and it it that experience that could pay in the long run.

There will be some noticeable difference in the way Harrison executes the offense as compared to the way Brett Misutka ran things last year.

Misutka was a wing-t quarterback, while Harrison at 6-4, 200-pounds is more of a drop back quarter-

back. Despite his size, Harrison also has the ability to turn it up field and run for extra yardage.

Sophomore Tyler Rowland is slated to be the back up for the Vikings.

Offensive line: Northgate faces some questions marks up front because of injuries and the loss of three starters, but there is plenty of experence.

Leading the way on the offensive line is Aaron Seabrook who has moved to center. Chase Smith, who played center on last year’s region championship team, has moved to tackle. Dustin Foley will play the other offensive tackle. Foley started all 12 games for the Vikings last year.

Nebiyou Maddox and T.J Womack are the guards.

“We still have some decisions to make and we could move some kids around this year, Walburn said.

Tight ends: Replacing Mitch Bemister won’t be easy. Bemister had 11 catches a year ago, but the Vikings have found a candidate in Marquis Jennings who came out of spring as the starting fullback until he as moved to tight end.

“We feel that once he gets comfortable with his blocking, he is going to be fine,” he said. “He’s a good pass catcher.”

Running back: Northgate comes into the season trying to replace some more than 2,000 yards in offense from its running backs, but Times-Herald Co-Offensive Players of the Year Alex Lakes and Payton Usher.

Kyle Kovacs was the third member of the the team’s stellar running game.

With the graduation of the three players, Cole Carter should step in at the wing-back position. Carter landed the starting job coming into last sea-

son, but injuries derailed those plans, but now he is 100 percent and ready to go.”

“Cole has done a great job getting in the weight room, and he has really worked hard on becoming a leader,” Carter said.

Sophomores Malek Wade and Kevin Teasley are also expected to contribute at wingback.

Benton Washington, who had a solid spring, enters the starting lineup in Lakes’ former fullback position after playing halfback last year, Connor Usher and Aaron Stargell could also see playing time at fullback.

East Coweta transfer Michael Willis is set to step in at halfback with Torres Johnson expected to backup at halfback.

“We are replacing a lot of yards and a lot of touchdowns,” Walburn said.

Wide receiver: Although Brandon Facyson will probably play in the defensive secondary in college, he will also be counted on heavily at wide receiver. Andrew Brady will also play wide receiver.

Armond Upshaw has also improved and gotten stronger. Kyle Henderson will also see time at the position after playing running back and in the secondary.

DEFENSE Defensive line: Sean Spencer has battled injuries the last couple of years, but the senior has impressed college scouts with his 6-4, 260pound frame and has already committed to Vanderbilt.

Northgate’s defensive lineman are interchangeable, sometimes they can play end or sometimes they can play tackle. Georgia commitment De’Andre Johnson will line up at

left defensive tackle. He comes into the year at 6-3, 320-pounds. Zack Burrell is just 16, but is already a senior. The 6-2, 190-pounder will share playing time with Sylvester Johnson. Blake McCollum is expected to play at the other end.

Linebacker: Connor Usher comes back at a banner year where he made 103 tackles.

“He is sort of the heart and soul of our defense,”Walburn said. “Connor might be the smartest defensive guy I know. I told him he needs to get into coaching because he would be a good one.”

Ryan Fagerstrom is set to play middle linebacker after playing some as a sophomore. The junior will have to fill a big hole left by the graduation of leading tackler Leon Sapp, who had 122 total hits in 2011.

Andrew Brady and Dalton Lane are set to play outside linebacker.

Sophomore Malik Wade is set to play in a back-up role. Adrian Tolbert is playing football for the first time and will also lineup at the outside linebacker spot. Jackson Dorman enters his sophomore year at linebacker.

Secondary: Brandon Facyson who enters his senior year after all ready committing to Virginia Tech, is expected to anchor the defensive side of the ball after earning 23 tackles last year and two interceptions.

Torres Johnson is back to play safety for the Vikings. Johnson was the second leading tackler last year for Northgate with 114.

“It should be the strength of our team, but you have to continue to work with them,” Walburn said.

Aaron Stargell comes back at right corner after starting every game last year.

Scoring No. Name TD EP FG 2ptTotal 1 Alex Lakes 20 0 0 0 120 25 Payton Usher 19 0 0 0 114 82 Will Lutz 0 55 3 0 61 8 Kyle Kovacs 7 0 0 0 42 2 Brandon Facyson 4 0 0 0 24 85 Mitch Bemister 3 0 0 0 18 3 Brett Misutka 2 0 0 1 14 41 Benton Washington 1 0 0 0 6 13 Aaron Stargell 1 0 0 0 6 4 Tony Williams 1 0 0 0 6 18 Josh Harrison 0 2 0 0 2 Totals 56 54 3 1 405 DEFENSE Tackles No. Name Solo Asst.

50 Leon Sapp 73 49 9 Torres Johnson 51 63 23 Conner Usher 74 29 29 D’lonzo Harris 57 41 44 Chad Garner 35 28 55 De’Andre Johnson 13 23 14 Jonovan Cotton 19 16 13 Aaron Stargell 26 9 22 Blake McCollum 1 6 15 32 Shaun Byrom 23 8 38 David Higgins 11 15 51 Matt Kindle 15 12 2 Brandon Facyson 17 6 33 Kain Elliott 6 6 1 Alex Lakes 8 3 76 Sean Spencer 7 4 73 Alex Heavner 4 7 93 Tevin Gripper 6 4 45 Ryan Fagerstrom 3 4 6 Matt Smith 3 1 7 Austin Hatney 2 2 34 Dalton Lane 2 0 10 Marquis Jennings 1 1 12 Christian Johnson 1 0 40 Alex Rutherford 0 1 5 Sylvester Johnson 1 0

Total 122 114 103 98 63 36 35 35 31 31 26 26 23 12 11 11 11 10 7 4 4 2 2 1 1 1

“He has fought through some injuries,” Walburn said. “Matt Smith is also in the rotation too. He has really impressed us, because he is making some plays out there.”

SPECIAL TEAMS The Vikings will have to replace the strong leg of Wil Lutz, Andrew Brady and Zack Braun are both vying for the punting spot. Braun also plays soccer at Northgate and had a soccer related injury to years ago and missed the 2011 football season .

Braun is the place kicker for the Vikings. Freshman Jamie Skalski kick off man and will handle long field goal attempts.

Northgate hoping for repeat of last year’s successful season Heritage-Conyers (Aug. 31) and at home against Griffin (Sept. 7). North Clayton, the team the Vikings beat in the first round of the playoffs last

year makes a return trip this season.

“We are trying to put the team together, and we are working really hard,” Walburn

said. We are still a work in progress. We are putting a lot of different pieces together.

We are excited about the upcoming season.”

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backs to tote the football for the Indians last year finishing with 250 yards and seven touchdowns. He averaged 7 yards per carry.

“He is really catching on, and we are excited to have him, Walburn said. Torres Johnson will also play in a limited role on offense.

Harrison will have plenty of sure-handed receivers to throw the ball to this season.

Brandon Facyson returns after leading the team with 18 catches and four touchdowns.

Although Facyson is expected to play on the defensive side at Virginia Tech, he was offered a scholarship to play wide receiver by the University of Missouri.

Andrew Brady and Armond Upshaw will also line up at wide receiver. Both have experience at the position.

Kyle Henderson has played in both cornerback and running back spots for the Vikings, but as switched to wide receiver for his senior year.

Northgate has to replace Wil Lutz in the kicking game.

Lutz, who will walk on at Georgia State, handled both the punting and kicking duties where he spit the uprights on 55 extra points and three field goals.

Andrew Brady will punt this season. Zack Braun could also play into the kicking game plans after returning from an injury.

Braun will kick extra points.

Jamie Skalski will handle long field goals and kickoffs.

Northgate moves to a Region 4-AAAAA this season, and its subregion includes Whitewater, Starr’s Mill and Creekside and McIntosh.

“The good thing is all of these games are close, and there is a little bit of a rivaly there,” Walburn said. “To be honest, I haven’t thought too much about the region. I am just trying to get us all on the same page.”

Northgate also opens the season on the road at

Greison Trail

VIKINGS

fullback spot after the conclusion of spring practice. At 6-2, 215 pounds, the junior is the Continued from page 6B perfect candidate to play the position.

“We feel like once he gets Aaron Stargell will play at comfortable with his blockthe right cornerback. Stargell ing he is going to be fine,” started every game last year, Walburn said. “He can defiand is 100 percent after fightnitely catch the ball. He is a ing through some injuries in good pass catcher, that is defithe offseason . nitely, not his problem.”

Matt Smith is also in the The running game is defirotation. nitely going to be a major part Northgate enters the seaof the Vikings offense again son with some new looks on this year albeit with some new offense. faces.

It starts with quarterback “All those guys in the backJosh Harrison, who takes over field will have big shoes for Brett Misutka. to fill,” Walburn said. “We A year ago, Harrison lost replaced a lot of yards and a a close quarterback battle to lot of touchdowns.”

Misutka, but still got some Wingback Cole Carter is game experience by playing in ready to step up and make a several contests that got out of major contribution. A year hand in late in the second half. ago, Carter was expected to With a much bigger 6-4 start, but an injury pushed frame than Misutka, Harrison him out of the line up as Kyle is more of a drop back quarKovacs stepped in and rushed terback, but he can also run for 386 yards. the option that was executed Once Kovacs broke into the so well by his predecessor. lineup he became so reliable “He probably has a stronger there was no getting him out arm than any quarterback I of the lineup. have ever coached,” Walburn “Cole has done a good job said. of getting into the weight Northgate’s offensive line room, and he is a team leader,” enters the season with some Walburn said. depth issues due to injuries.

Malek Wade and Kevin “Once we get everybody Teasley will also be among the back and healthy, I think we backups at wingback. are going to be okay,” Walburn Junior Benton Washington said, moves over fullback after Aaron Seabrook is expected playing as a back up halfback to start the year at center. He last year. moves over for Chase Smith, Washington switched posiwho has switched to one of the tions this year when the tackle spots. Dustin Foley, who decision was made to move stared every game last year, is Jennings from the fullback back at the other tackle. spot. Washington will be the The guard spots will be held replacement for Lakes who down by Nebau Maddox and lead the team with 1, 220 yards T.J. Womack. and 19 TDs. Connor Usher “We could still move some could also see time on the kids around for depth purpos- offensive side of the ball as the es, Walburn said. back up to Washington.

Replacing tight end Mitch The Vikings coaching staff Bemister, who had 11 catches could also turn to Stargell in a year ago, was one of the another backup role.

Vikings main objectives headEast Coweta transfer ing into the offseason.

Michael Willis enrolled at Northgate has found a canNorthgate just in time to start football practice. Willis didate in Marquis Jennings, who has moved over from the was one of several running

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8B — The Newnan Times-Herald — Wednesday, August 22, 2012

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FOOTBALL ‘12 EDITION

1C Wednesday

Aug. 22, 2012

Change is afoot behind center at Northgate, East Coweta and Newnan with first-year starting quarterbacks taking over for the 2012 season. After waiting patiently for their turn, one thing is for sure: The trio are ...

Armed and Ready

BY DOUG GORMAN dgorman@newnan.com

E

ast Coweta, Newnan and Northgate football fans might not always see eye to eye on most things.

But in 2012, they have something in common—all three teams will start the season with a new quarterback under center.

Northgate has handed the ball to Josh Harrison, while East Coweta junior Bryce Gemmel, and Newnan sophomore Bailey Bryant are the heir apparent at their respective schools.

The quarterbacks take over with their schools also making the transition into both new regions and classifications.

This is the first year the Georgia High School Association has moved to six classifications and East Coweta and Newnan will play in Region 3-AAAAAA, while Northgate plays in Region 4-AAAAA. Harrison lands the job at Northgate after losing a close battle with Brett Misutka last season.

All three quarterbacks have a swagger in their step and confidence in their voices as they take over a position left vacant by graduation.

Perhaps the biggest thing they have in common is a desire to keep their teams’ playoff streaks alive.

Gemmel and Bryant become their school’s third starting quarterback in as many years.

Gemmel takes at over at East Coweta with two years of eligibility left, while Bryant is just a sophomore and looks to be the starter for the next three seasons for the Cougars.

Both Bryant and Harrison standout in the crowd with their size.

Harrison steps under center at 6-4, while Bryant takes over his starting role as a 6-2 sophomore.

For Newnan’s head coach McDonald, this is a first.

“I have never had a situation like this before,” McDonald said at the end of spring practice. “This my 19th year of coaching football, and I have never had to start a sophomore.”

Wade thinks having Gemmel around for the next two years is going to be a blessing.

“That gives us some stability,” Wade said. “That is something we haven’t had in a while.”

A year ago, Northgate had its best season ever, finishing the 2011 season with an undefeated regular season record and a region championship.

“It was hard not getting to play a lot last year, but I got into some games, and we had a special year,” Harrison said.

East Coweta posted a 7-5 overall record and also made it to the playoffs with Garrett Schrepfer at quarterback.

Newnan finished with a 6-6 record, but also pulled off a stunning upset in the first round of the playoffs by winning on the road at Valdosta.

Although Bryant was just a freshman at Newnan last year, he cut his teeth on high school football as member of the junior varsity, instead of playing on the freshman team.

He also went through his first spring practice with the Cougars when he was still in eighth grade.

“Getting that chance to play early, and play with some older guys will really help me get better,” Bryant said.

For Harrison, waiting his turn wasn’t always easy, but he is happy that his chance has finally arrived.

I am so excited. I have been working just about as hard as I can,” he said. “These guys make all the plays. It doesn’t matter how good I am. It depends on the whole team. I can do everything I can, but it all has to come together right now.”

Walburn doesn’t expect Northgate to miss a beat with Harrison under center.

“Josh loves football more than anybody I have ever known, “Walburn said. “He’s really improved since last year.”

Northgate 6-4, 210 Senior

Josh Harrison Photos by Jeffrey Leo

Bryce Gemmel

East Coweta 6-0, 190 Junior

Bailey Bryant Harrison has also earned the confidence of his teammates.

“He is a real leader out there,” Walburn said. “His teammates like him and they believe in him.”

At Newnan, McDonald said his young quarterback is already turning into a student of the game and he only expects him to get better.

“He gets in there and really watches a lot of film,” McDonald said.

Gemmel gets the starting nod on offense for the Indians after playing primary on defense most of last season.

“I think playing on defense will help me this year at quarterback,” he said. “I got a

Newnan High 6-3, 180,

chance to play and get into big games.”

East Coweta offensive coordinator Tom Gochenour did his best to get Gemmel varsity experience, using the thensophomore in goal-line and short yardage formations. He scored his first varsity touchdown on the road at Langston Hughes.

But last Thursday’s scrimmage at Whitewater was his first chance to be the man.

For Gemmel it was a chance to show his versatility as he used his legs to scamper for the Indians first score thanks to a short run.

Gemmel isn’t worried about the pressure of trying to lead his team back to the play-

offs after a 7-4 season that included a victory over rival Newnan in the regular season finale.

“We are really young, but everybody knows a lot about football. We are confident we can win a lot of games,” he said.

Harrison also says he benefited from backing-up Misutka, who passed 967 yards and 10 touchdowns.

“I learned so much,” he said of Misutka, a All-Region 3-AAAA Second Team selection while leading the Vikings to a region title and an unbeaten regular season.

“The biggest thing I learned was leadership. Just working in practice. I was on scout

team offense going against one of the best defenses in the state. It certainly had its good points doing that, “Harrison said.

Although Walburn would have been comfortable playing Harrison more last year had Misutka going down, he never thought about going with a two -quarterback system.

“I have never been a fan of rotating quarterbacks,” he said. “It’s kind of what it looks like the Jets are doing in the NFL, and I don’t really think it works.”

Newnan’s Bryant also learned a lot from watching Nick Smith run the offense at Newnan.

“He was a great quarter-

back,” Bryant said. “I learned a lot just by watching him.”

Smith caught the attention of college scouts with his athletic ability even though he started just one year for the Cougars and earned a scholarship from Reinhardt College and former East Coweta coach Danny Cronic.

Gemmel is coming off a solid year on the baseball diamond last spring for East Coweta and admits playing a couple sports helps him stay focused and even backs him a better football player.

“I know all the throwing that I do even in baseball, can only help,” he said.

Wade agrees playing baseball might just help Gemmel.

“It shows he is a really good athlete,” he said.

Harrison will get the opportunity to take his first snaps as the Vikings’ starter next week when they travel to Macon for a game against Veterans High School in Macon.

The Northgate quarterback has already won over his team that includes three Division I bound teammates.

He is just a great leader in the huddle, “ Walburn said.

“His teammates have a lot of confidence in him.”

Although Bryant is still maturing as a quarterback, he is not your typical sophomore.

“We knew we were going to be in this situation,” McDonald said. “He has matured, and he has a strong arm.”

Bryant got his first taste of varsity football Friday night in his team’s scrimmage victory over Griffin.

“We work really well as a team,” he said. “We have a good group of guys. I am really proud of my line because they really made it easy for me to read the defenses out there tonight. They kind of slowed the game up for me out there tonight.”

The Cougar sophomore said his 10 of 15, 150-yard performance against the Bears gave him confidence going into the season opener Friday at Marietta.

His debut also included a touchdown throw, but perhaps most importantly, no interceptions.

“It definitely gives me confidence,” he said, “I think we all have confidence now. We just have to go out there and have a good week of practice and take what we learned in the scrimmage.”

Bryant steps into the spotlight Friday as the Cougars open the season a week early than East Coweta and Northgate with a tough nonregion game at Marietta.

McDonald liked what his saw from his young quarterback against Griffin.

“I thought for his first varsity game he did great, I have know complaints, “he said.

“I thought he was poised.

He made some really great throws.”

The Newnan coach is excited to see him in action next week when it counts for real.

“You can’t get experience unless you go out there and play,” McDonald said. “He got that experience tonight and he handled himself well.”

Gemmel will officially begin his role as the Indians’ starting quarterback next week when East Coweta hosts Henry County.

Harrison’s first official action comes in Friday’s Northgate scrimmage at Veterans High in Warner Robins before opening the season the following week at Heritage of Conyers.

The new quarterbacks begin their duties as their teams move into new regions.

Gemmel and East Coweta as well as Bryant and East Coweta play in Region 3-AAAAAA,while Harrison and his Northgate teammates will compete in a Region 4B-AAAAA. The hope for each of the first-year starters’ head coaches is that their leadership this fall will again result in state playoff appearances.

One thing is for certain.

Their time to shine has finally arrived.

2C — The Newnan Times-Herald — Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Heritage School Hawks

GISA Region 2-AAA Head coach: KEvin Prisant

Nutrition Facts Serving Size 1 team

The 2012 Heritage School Hawks

Making the Investment

By CHRIS GOLTERMANN cgoltermann@newnan.com

I

t wasn’t long after the scoreboard clock reached zero last season on a playoff loss to Edmund Burke that Heritage School assistant coach Drew Henderson — working under his third Hawks head coach over a three-year span — told his current ‘boss’ possibly the most profound statement yet in the school’s short football history.

“Drew Henderson came and told me that was the first time after a game, and he had been with these kids since they were freshmen, there were tears and crying,” said Heritage second year head coach Kevin Prisant. “Cause they thought they were invested in something.”

It’s been said that winning is the cure all. And the Hawks celebrated more times than ever before in school history in 2011, finishing 8-3 after losing 43-20 in the first round of the GISA Class AA state playoffs.

Does that mean Prisant knew more football than his three predecessors, two of which — Ron Beaucham and Danny Cronic — were highly respected high school coaches in the county? Surely not.

But the attitude toward varsity football at The Heritage School, now entering its seventh year of play, may have changed more under Prisant, a first-year head coach, last season than in any of the six previous. And the 27-year-old focused as much on creating confidence on the field as he did in the locker room.

“We tried to change, that at Heritage football was not a social event anymore. We came to win. It’s not a social club anymore,” he said. “They know, as they did last year, that you have a chance to compete. We used last year to get past the mentality of ‘I hope we have a shot at this.’ They believe they have a shot.”

Ask the Hawks coach about last season and he’ll tell you how fortunate they were in some of last year’s victories.

More than a few times the ball seemed to finally bounce in their favor after years and years of Murphy’s Law in red, blue and white. Maybe it’s best that the red will be absent from Heritage’s uniforms this fall. If this were Wall Street, Heritage might be an up-andcoming stock among futures.

“We’d not even be trying to onsides kick and we’d have a messed up kick and it’d go right into our guys hands for a scoop and score 70-yard touchdown,” Prisant said.

“That stuff just doesn’t happen all the time. All that did

Photo by Jeffrey Leo

Heritage School second-year head coach Kevin Prisant’s team is coming off a program-best eight victories from 2011.

GAME NIGHT OFFERS COLLECT ALL 10!

2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 31 Flint River Sept. 7 Dominion Christian Sept. 14 Arlington Christian Sept. 21 At Dawson Street Sept. 28 At Southland Academy Oct. 12 At Mount de Sales* Oct. 19 Stratford Academy* Oct. 26 At Westminster (Augusta)* Nov. 2 Tattnall Square* Nov. 9 At Trinity Christian * *Region 2-AAA Game 2011 RESULTS Aug. 26 Dawson Street W 35-0 Sept. 2 Trinity Christian W 35-13 Sept. 9 Mt. Vernon Pres.W 54-32 Sept. 16 At Cent. FellowshipW41-0 Sept. 23 Valwood School L42-28 Sept. 30 At Flint River W21-13 Oct. 14 Skipstone Aca. W46-0 Oct. 21 At SW Georgia W30-28 Oct. 28 Brookwood W45-14 Nov. 4 At Arlington Chr. L35-33 GISA State Playoffs Nov. 11 At Edmund Burke L43-20

changed the mentality and showed them they could compete. New team, new direction. Everybody’s wanting an encore of last year. But my goal is not to lose in the first round of the playoffs.”

Of course, the talent on the field was as much a reason for success as well, with most of last year’s biggest contributors returning this fall. None played a bigger role, however, than Candler Rich, who might as well have been wearing an ‘S’ instead of a No. 7 on the front of his uniform.

As a junior, Rich rushed for a county-best 1,680 yards and 24 touchdowns, while establishing the career rushing record for the school. He has a chance to finish with over 5,000 yards and 75 touchdowns before his varsity years are over. But the 5-11, 185-pound senior was equally unstoppable in other areas, accounting for more than

2,700 total yards. As a twoway starter at safety, he added 89 tackles and a team-high six interceptions.

With three Ivy League schools and a handful of others showing interest, he’s likely to become the first Division I scholarship player from the program since current Troy senior offensive lineman Kyle Wilborn in 2007-08.

“Everybody looks to him,” Prisant said of Rich.

Rich will be counted on even more heavily heading into next Friday’s season opener against Flint River.

A shoulder injury to senior quarterback Joe Bonner — a fourth-year starter — will put even more emphasis on the Hawks’ star tailback as sophomore backup Brad Macke quickly is brought up to speed on the offense.

“Candler’s going to be the focus. Everybody knows they’ve got to find something to do with number seven,” Prisant said. “Brad knows he can run our base offense. He’s young, but he’s a good enough athlete to do it. But what he’s going to have to adjust to is decision making. Having Joe with him helps.”

Bonner rushed for 15 touchdowns and threw for seven more while finishing with 782 passing yards. He doesn’t expect to be back on the practice field until mid to late September at the earliest. But after returning from camp in south Georgia with their starting quarterback and fullback among five injured players, this year’s group of 13 seniors huddled their teammates together for a meeting.

“We had all those injuries at camp and the kids were kinda down,” said Prisant. “The seniors had a meeting with everyone that we’re not going to change things because of what happened. We’re not gonna change anything. If anything, losing Brad just showed our guys that you’re just one play from being in the game. We had planned on how we were going to get Brad on

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the field anyway we could just to get him game experience.”

Even with Rich expected to line up in the Wildcat formation at quarterback at times — a situation he was forced into two years ago when Bonner suffered a head injury — expect Heritage to continue running its option attack with a heavy does of carries by No. 7.

The difference, however, is the group of skill players both in the backfield and at receiver gets a huge influx of depth that should help twoway starters like fullback Dalton Trammell. A starter at linebacker, Trammell, who rushed for 684 yards and four touchdowns at a clip of 5.4 per carry has a chance this year to be spelled by freshman AJ Gainwell at the position should he need to be rested on offense.

Meanwhile, senior David Bready, returns at running back among an ever-expanding group that now includes sophomore Parker Jones, senior Pat McKee and freshman Matt Burns.

The receiving corps also grew in numbers with the additions of sophomore Harrison Holland and freshmen Spencer Perry, Matt

Henson and Lawson Harris.

Prisant feels Perry has “all the tools to be successful,” but also expects the group to be brought along slowly while making the adjustment to the varsity level.

Regardless, the group, along with the return of senior Will Duke, should allow Heritage to rest 6-foot-6 senior Garrett Jones as much as possible after pulling in 13 passes for 169 yards and two touchdowns while continuing to nurse a bad back.

“We just have to choose wisely,” Prisant said of Jones.

“He’s got great hands and it’s hard to defend 6-6. But I also want him in there as a blocker.”

Junior tight end Tyler Henson could be the key to success in Heritage’s passing game after leading the Hawks with four touchdowns among his 11 catches. He’ll be joined by freshman basketball standout Cole Jones at the position.

“We’ve got people to get the ball to,” Prisant said. “Up front, we’re just pretty thin.

We’re just one player away from moving Tyler Henson to a tackle position and Trammell to a guard.”

Six seniors are back up

Heritage School 2012 Roster No. Name Pos. Yr. 1 Chaz Bankston QB/S So. 2 Spencer Perry WR/LB Fr. 3 Harrison Holland WR/CB So. 4 Will Duke WB/CB Sr. 5 Patrick McKee RB/CB Sr. 7 Candler Rich RB/S Sr. 8 Tyler Henson TE/DL Jr. 10 Brad Macke QB/DB So. 11 David Bready RB/LB Jr. 12 Peyton Henson QB/S Fr. 14 Hayden Stanley RB/CB Fr. 15 Elliot Smith OL/DE Sr. 17 Joe Bonner QB/LB Sr. 21 Matt Burns RB/CB Fr. 23 Parker Jones RB/LB So. 27 Trevor Sawyers FB/LB So. 28 Matt Henson WR/LB Fr. 32 Dalton Trammell RB/LB Jr. 33 Phillip Griffies OL/DL So. 34 AJ Gainwell FB/LB Fr. 35 Chris Moore OL/DL Sr. 44 Trevor Henson OL/DL So. 47 Ben Dudley OL/DE/K/P Sr. 50 Tyler Nix OL/LB Sr. 54 Caleb Woodruff OL/DL Jr. 56 Richard EbersbachOL/DL Sr. 63 Tyler Bean OL/DL Sr. 65 Grayson Parker OL/DL Sr. 66 Sam Pulsipher OL/DL Sr. 74 Thomas Gruber OL/DL Sr. 80 Lawson Harris WR/DB Fr. 81 Garrett Jones WR/P Sr. 82 Cole Jones TE/DE Fr. 87 Jake Henderson WR/DB Fr. Head coach: Kevin Prisant — 2nd year (8-3 overall) C o a c h i n g s t a f f: D. J . C l ay (Defensive coordinator), Murray Parks, Drew Henderson, Bart Henson, Dean Henson

front led by Tyler Nix, whose quickness at right guard should be an asset. “When we do our conditioning, I send him with the running backs.

He’s a fullback playing right guard,” Prisant said. “With what we do, he’s gotta pull and be able to handle the linebackers and when you have Candler or Bready behind you, you’ve gotta go.”

Senior Elliot Smith is also a returning starter at center now in his third year at the position. “He our smallest one out there. You don’t hear a lot about a center unless they mess up,” Prisant said. “And he doesn’t mess up a whole lot.”

See HAWKS, page 4C

THE HERITAGE SCHOOL imagine the possibilities

Just as students are encouraged to challenge themselves academically, they are also given the opportunity to reach their highest potential in athletics. In the 14-sport athletic program, any student who wants to participate in competitive sports may do so, and his or her skills are strengthened in the process. The Heritage School offers three competitive football programs, at the Lower School, Middle School, and Varsity levels.

Come see what we’re about Date

August 31 September 7 September 14 September 21 September 28 October 5 October 12 October 19 October 26 November 2 November 9

VARSITY FOOTBALL 2012 Time

Opponent

7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm

Flint River Dominion Arlington Christian Dawson Street Southland OFF Mount De Sales* Stratford* Westminister* Tattnall* Trinity – Sharpsburg*

7:00 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm

Location

Home Home Home Away Away Away Home Away Home Away

*region

The Heritage School is an independent, college preparatory school serving students ages 4 through twelfth grade. We are dually accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and by the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS).

2093 Highway 29 North Newnan, Georgia 30263 770.253.9898 www.heritagehawks.org

Wednesday, August 22, 2012 — The Newnan Times-Herald — 3C

Trinity Christian Lions

GISA Region 2-AAA Head coach: Chris Hanson

Nutrition Facts Serving Size 1 team

Trinity Christian second year head coach Chris Hanson has upped the intensity further in the offseason with hopes of cutting down mental mistakes on the field and getting the team even more physically ready for the rigors of the GISA Region 2-AAA schedule.

No time for ‘lion’ around roster continues to expand.

“I think it’s that way across the board,” he said. “I think that can only help us. The only way we can cut down the ational defense mental mistakes is by doing secrets may be more things the right way every day easily obtainable in practice.” than what’s going on Shoates and Adams look to these days on the football field be the frontrunners at quarat Trinity Christian, where terback, with the former havsecond-year head coach Chris ing to step in immediately folHanson — in his most cordial lowing a broken hand to last way possible — would rather year’s top challenger, Adam keep most of the Lions plans Downs, against The Heritage for the 2012 season behind School. Adams can also be a closed doors despite one’s top weapon at tight end along attempts to get a sneak peek. with Hogan should Shoates In his opinion, the season get the call. will be here soon enough for The core group of offenhis team to reveal them in the sive linemen are made up of example Hanson preaches upperclassmen. They include best. Namely by what’s physisenior Mark Collier, who cally accomplished on the hopes a string of injury probfield rather than what can be lems that hampered him predicted on paper. last year has run its course.

“This year, everything we Seniors Brandon Ganey, Tim do matters, off the field, on Bryant, Jacob Pape and Cole the field. Just do your job and Barnes also should help the don’t worry about anyone team comprise a bigger, stronelse’s,” said the Lions head ger front five after another coach of the second-year GISA year in the weight room with program. “Just basically do strength coach Jared Bidne. your job to the best of your Junior Conner Owen and ability, we’re on the same senior Christian Salvanera page.” are expected to be in the rotaAs for the specifics, Hanson tion up front on both sides of and his staff are keeping most the ball. of what’s to come behind the Along with Adams and curtains. Not even the tease of Photo by Jeffrey Leo Shoates, sophomore Aaron a change in uniform is being Johnson should provide help Assistant coach Jeff Weaver runs through preseason drills with Lions players during practice. revealed before next Friday’s season opener against John I want [our players] to Milledge. understand that we’ve “You’ll just have to wait and got to go beyond that in see,” Hanson said. practices and any kind Who’s starting at quarterof preparation we’re back for Trinity? Well it could doing,” Hanson said. be senior Connor Adams ...

“Practice should be the or junior Daniel Shoates ... or toughest thing we do.” even sophomore Joe Hogan.

Some aspects of the But Hanson’s not divulgprogram have changed ing exactly which one will over the last year. be out there next week when Hanson has turned the Lions open the season at over his offense to a home. new coordinator in 2012 SCHEDULE “We’re going to put the Ryan McCoy, while Aug. 31 John Milledge Academy best eleven out there,” he said. also bringing new Sept. 7 Arlington Christian “This year we have an understaff members aboard Sept. 14 Dominion Christian standing of what to expect including Jeff Weaver, CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Sept. 21 At Flint River Academy from each other. I think last who worked with East Sept. 28 At Piedmont Academy year was a definite learning Coweta’s varsity feeder Oct. 12 At Stratford Academy curve for them. The coachprograms. His son, Oct. 19 At Tattnall Square ing staff and I would try to get J.P., remains the team’s Oct. 26 Mount de Sales them to buy in and understand defensive coordinator Nov. 2 At Westminster (Augusta) that you can’t just come out and his personnel in Nov. 9 The Heritage School and throw something out on * Home games at East Coweta Middle 2012 should more clearthe practice field and expect ly dictate the staff’s School to execute it on Friday night. I philosophy to attack think last year was a definite opponents in all phases 2011 RESULTS (2-8) learning curve for them. The of the game.

Aug. 19 Flint River L28-6 coaching staff and I tried to let “We want to be Sept. 2 At Heritage School L35-13 them understand ‘Hey, you’re constantly attackSept. 9 Arlington Christian L34-0 getting into some big time ing,” Hanson said. “It Sept. 16 At Mount de Sales L49-0 football and you need to exe• SACS Accredited Sept. 23 Stratford Aca. L62-28 doesn’t matter if it’s cute on Friday night.” offense, defense or speSept. 30 Tattnall Square L40-7 A 2-8 season during a tough Oct. 14 At John Milledge L35-13 cial teams, we want to first go in the highest classiOct. 22 At Griffin Christian W36-0 attack you. That’s our fication of the GISA may not Oct. 29 Covenant Christian W20-6 goal.” be completely forgotten. The Trinity expects to Nov. 4 Mount Vernon L55-3 result has been a renewed have more talent to focus that ‘team’ and not ‘playexecute those goals er’ come first when it comes to A roster of 38 players the roster. includes 14 seniors, Lions players were greeted The road to success may harshly both in the spring and most of whom are being not get any easier in 2012. Last preseason with workouts and expected to contribute. Along year’s Region 2-AAA alignwith last year’s returners, practices that demanded a ment remains nearly intact, the program has received greater need for limiting the with traditional GISA powan influx of new faces while mistakes that plagued them erhouse programs Stratford throughout their first venture expecting to benefit from the Academy, Mount de Sales school’s future expansions. into 11-man football. A year and Tattnall Square — which They include an on-campus after dominating the comhave won a combined 23 home field that could be competition in the Independent state and 30 region football pleted by the time the Lions Christian Schools of Georgia championships. are getting ready to host rival and Alabama, Trinity averThe newcomers are led by aged 10.3 points per game dur- Heritage School to close the crosstown rival The Heritage regular season. ing the GISA schedule and School, coming off the best “It’s an exciting time to be allowed nearly 34 while no season in its seven-year hiscloser than three touchdowns at this school with so much tory, along with Westminster going on,” Hanson said. in any contest. of Augusta, the only school On the field, meanwhile, the “And that’s been one of our besides Trinity to finish with a main things as a coaching Trinity coach says that there’s TCSLIONS.ORG losing record last fall. been healthy competition at staff why I’ve ramped up the It’s as much a reason why nearly every position as the intensity so much, is because

By CHRIS GOLTERMANN cgoltermann@newnan.com

N

GAME NIGHT OFFERS COLLECT ALL 10!

TRINITY

Trinity Christian 2012 Football Roster No. Name Yr. 1 Dee Snelling Jr. 2 Christian Stearley So. 4 Connor Adams Sr. 5 Devin Colburn So. 6 Jeremiah Pape Fr. 7 Jay Warner Sr. 8 Daniel Shoates Jr. 9 Landon Comeans Sr. 10 Avery Braxton Jr. 11 Edwin Rivera Sr. 12 Joe Hogan So. 22 Caleb Hess So. 23 David Ito So. 24 Cody Houser Sr. 28 Gavin Smith So. 35 Drew Gibson Sr. 38 Leighton Cannon So. 42 Tim Bryant Sr. 43 Rodney Neely Jr. Jr. 44 Aaron Johnson So. 45 Robby Blanchard So. 46 Diego Henriquez So. 50 Kyle Houser Fr. 52 Grant Hurston Fr. 56 Mark Collier Sr. 60 Cole Barnes Sr. 66 Tyler Hood Fr. 74 Clark Lord Jr. 75 Christian Salvanera Jr. 76 Brandon Gainey Sr. 79 Kyler Albanez Fr. 80 Glen Whisby So. 85 Michael Troyer Fr. 88 Conner Owen Jr. 90 Kyle Head Fr. 99 Tanner Johnson Fr. Head coach: Chris Hanson (2nd year, 2-8 overall) Assistants: J.P. Weaver (Defensive coordinator), Ryan McCoy (Offensive Coordinator), Jeff Weaver (Quarterbacks/Secondary), Eric Croteau (Receivers/ Secondary), Darrell Shields (O f fe n s i ve L i n e), M a r k Bryan (Defensive Line) on offense with senior Cody Houser, junior Dee Snelling and transfer Jay Warner all adding depth at receiver.

Houser — who should also be one of Region 2-AAA’s top specialists with continued tutoring from his head coach, a former NFL All-Pro punter — has won the team’s Ironman competition in each of its first two years.

Snelling, who often found himself the central target of opponents, should find himself in more one-on-one situations to his liking this fall while in his third year as a starter.

See TRINITY, page 4C

4C — The Newnan Times-Herald — Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Landmark Christian War Eagles

Nutrition Facts Serving Size 1 team

Landmark Christian War Eagles 2012 Roster No. Name Yr. 2 Nolan Bryant Jr 4 Bassell Hojeij Fr 5 Josh Nobles Sr 6 Ben Baggett Sr 7 Will Martin Sr 8 Sterling Dixon So 9 John Knight Sr 10 Aaron Burtz So 11 Darius Smith Jr 12 Evan Price So 14 Stockton McGuirre Fr 15 Preston Davis Fr 16 Ben Copeland Sr 17 Cole Higbie Sr 18 Peyton Hayes Fr 22 Jeremiah Kirkland Jr 24 Caleb Cole Fr 25 Ben Patterson Sr 30 Sylvester Toe Fr 32 Ethan Sewell Sr 33 Deion Hill Jr 35 Drew McMurrin So 36 Cody Chastain Fr 38 Titus Creamer So 45 Greg Pulliam Sr 47 William Higbie Jr 48 Joshua Cobb Fr 52 Conner Swords Sr 53 Camden Cusumano Fr 54 Jacob Cobb Sr 55 Will Yancey So 56 Briah Wiggins Sr 58 Drew Anderson Fr 60 Bradley Fleming So 61 Nolan Cartledge So 62 Josh Apter So 64 Zachary Stone Fr 66 Reed McGuire Jr 70 Michael Johnson Jr 72 Hunter Wallace Fr 74 Jackson Ayers Fr 75 John Paul Reed Sr 77 Brooks Austin Sr 79 Steve Bedosky S0 80 Sam Dobbs So 81 Will Walters So 88 Taylor Snyder Fr 90 Devon Pruitt Jr

GHSA Region 5-A: Head coach: Wayne brantley

Photo courtesy Eric Richards/Richards Photography

Ready to begin another climb LANDMARK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 2012 schedule Aug. 24 Calvary Day Aug. 31 Athens Christian Sept. 7 at Wilkerson County Sept. 14 at Mt. Paran Christian Sept. 28 Mt. Vernon Christian Oct. 5 At Our Lady of Mercy Oct. 12 Strong Rock Oct. 19 At Pace Academy Nov. 2 Holy Innocents Nov. 9 At Eagle’s Landing Christian 2011 Results Sept. 9 Riverside Military W65-0 Sept. 16 at Our Lady of Mercy W49-12 Sept. 23 Whitefield Academy W34-10 Sept. 30 SW Atlanta Christian W56-0 Oct. 14 Eagle’s Landing Christian L35-14 Oct. 21 First Presbyterian L 31-21 Oct. 28 at Strong Rock W35-0 Nov. 4 at Wesleyan W 16-7 Nov. 11 at Darlington W 17-14 Nov. 18 at Calvary Day W21-7 Nov. 25 at Aquinas W 28-7 Dec. 2 at Eagle’s Landing Chr. W 14-7 Dec. 10 Savannah Christian L 20-3

FROM STAFF REPORTS sports@newnan.com The biggest question mark heading into the 2012 football season is how does Landmark Christian tops last year’s trip to the Georgia Dome for the Class A championship?

Although the War Eagles came upon the short end of a 20-3 decision to Savannah Christian, the 12-3 finish was the best finish in the program’s 20-year varsity history dating back to the tenure of head coach Bill Thorn, whose name now graces the school’s stadium in Fairburn.

The run to last year’s championship was also the end of an era for head coach Kenny Dallas who compiled an 88-41 record in 11 seasons before leaving to purse a career in the ministry in Tennessee at Grace Christian Academy in Franklin where he will work as the campus minister ad spiritual develop-

ment director.

Dallas had the War Eagles in the playoffs 10 out of his 11 years, and now the job of keeping the team on track belongs to Wayne Brantley. Brantley was on staff last year as the athletic director and assistant coach.

“This is a special place to me and we felt very blessed last year to have such a great season,” Brandley said. “It was a great accomplishment for us, but we also have to understand that was last year.

We’ve got to take it one week at a time.

You can’t win state with just one win.”

Despite the loss of 13 seniors — nearly all of which played an invaluable role in the players return to the team with hopes of keeping the team on pace for another shot at the Class A title.

Josh Nobles is back at wide receiver and expected to play an important part in the team’s offense.

Running back Jeremiah Kirkland returns after rushing for more than 1,000 yards last year as a sophomore.

ARlington christian Eagles

FROM STAFF REPORTS sports@newnan.com

The Arlington Christian School Eagles have gone from one former SEC football player to another when it comes to finding a head coach.

Gone is former Georgia running back Robert Edwards, replaced by ex-Alabama fullback Kenneth Scissum.

Edwards resigned at the GISA school in Fairburn to takes a head coach job at Greenville.

It will be up to Scissum to keep the program on the up swing

after making the playoffs last year.

Arlington will kickoff their season with a home opener, Fri., Aug. 24 at 7:30 p.m. when they face Dawson Street in Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) AA competition.

“Although we lost some fantastic seniors who are playing at the collegiate level, our team will be scrappy and aggressive,” Scissum said.

Key players this season will be senior running back/cornerback Shaw Powell, senior

offensive tackles and defensive end Darius McNear, senior fullback and middle linebacker Ashton Norwood and junior tight end and middle linebacker Christopher Brownlee.

Davey Matthews will take over the main duties at quarterback.

“He has the heart of a lion and will give us quickness. Powell is “extremely agile and constantly making the opponents miss.

When he gets to the open field, his extra burst of speed often propels him into the end zone.

Program eyes first state playoff win

HAWKS

abandoned pickup truck.

Parker led Heritage with seven sacks in 2011 while finContinued from page 2C ishing with 104 tackles on the defensive front.

The group of returners, Seniors Tyler Bean and though, have Tyler Henson Richard Ebersbach solidify and Dudley expecting to get the tackle positions with another upperclassman, Ben a brunt of snaps. Gainwell, meanwhile, earned the praise Dudley, rotating in. of teammates and coaches Dudley, who returns to while working at noseguard handle punting and kicking in camp in addition to addduties, is also among three ing depth at linebacker with players competing for the Bready. Moore (57 tackles), starting job at right tackle Smith (52) and Ebersbach with first-year senior Sam (49) were also among leaders Pulsipher and sophomore in tackles last season.

Trevor Henson. Senior Sophomore Trevor Chris Moore, sophomore Sawyers has a chance to Thomas Gruber and junior move into a starting lineCaleb Woodruff also return. backer role with standouts It’s also possible, but Nix and Trammell in the somewhat unlikely that middle of second-year coorHeritage will get star linedinator D.J. Clay’s unit. Nix man Grayson Parker back finished with 123 tackles last this year. Parker has underyear and Trammell’s 118 hits gone medical tests after going were right behind the team missing in July and being lead. Sophomore Parker found miles away from his Jones, who was hurt in the

team’s preseason scrimmage, should also provide another key addition at outside linebacker.

Rich solidifies the defensive backfield after recording a team-high six interceptions, but Prisant has been searching for young cornerbacks to emerge up along with seniors Duke and McKee. “We’ve got to have somebody in the first one, two or three games to step up and say this is my spot,” he said.

In so many ways, the Hawks’ goal in 2012 will center on taking the program to the next level. Despite coming off the program’s most successful season in school history, Heritage remains 0-3 in the postseason.

For Prisant, it’s not a matter of ‘how,’ but ‘now’ this year with so many fans looking forward to a sequel of last year’s success.

“We have to,” Prisant said.

Senior Cole Higbie and freshman Stockton McGuire are fighting out for the starting quarterback job and each could see playing time.

Higbie is also expected to play cornerback on defense for War Eagles.

“We might have the best cornerback the state,” Brantley said of Higbie. “At least in Class A.” The War Eagles are stout on both the defensive and offensive lines as seniors John Paul Reed (6-5, 300), Reed McGuire (6-6, 230) and Brooks Austin (6-2, 270) anchor things up front.

Landmark plays in the newly formed Region 5-A this year and has seven league games, including one at with Eagle’s Landing Christian the last week of the season.

A year ago, Landmark played rival Eagle’s Landing Christian twice, losing to them in the regular season, but winning in the playoffs 14-7 in the Class A semi finals game to earn the trip to the Georgia Dome.

GISA Region 4-AA: Head coach: Robert Scissum

Nutrition Facts Serving Size 1 team

Brownlee is a real talent at tight end and emerging as an aggressive blocker who also has good hands.

Norwood is back at linebacker after a productive junior year.

He will get help from newcomer Curtis Jones in the outside linebacker position. McNear is a force on the defensive line and knows what it takes to be competitive at this level Scissum will be assisted by defensive coordinator Kenderrick Bonner and defensive line coach Timothy Virgil.

Arlington Christian Eagles 2012 Roster No. Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Sr. 1 Ashton Norwood LB/FB 5-10 210 Sr 2 Brandon Ramos DB/RB 6-0 150 Jr 4 Jonathan Heard DB/WR 6-0 170 So 5 Raheem Gilliam LB/TE 5-10 100 Fr 7 Tre’Vaughn Anthony DB/WR 5-11 155 So 12 Shaw Powell DB/RB 5-6 150 Sr 14 Davey Matthews DB/QB 5-10 155 Jr 22 Chris Brownless LB/OG 5-11 190 Jr 56 Curtis Jones LB/OL 6-0 220 Jr. 64 Joseph Biggers OL/DL 5-6 240 So. 65 Emmanuel Moreland OL/DL 5-7 200 Fr. 72 Triston Gregoire OL/DL 6-2 230 Sr. 74 Darius McNair OL/DL 6-6 225 Sr. 82 Swade Hutchinson LB/WR 6-1 170 Sr. Head coach: Robert Scissum (First year)

Warner, Gibson big additions TRINITY

Continued from page 3C Warner, meanwhile, makes the short journey down Highway 154 after averaging 5.8 yards on 49 carries last year at East Coweta. He finished with 282 yards and two touchdowns among a deep crop of running backs.

He’ll be among an equally growing backfield now at Trinity, joining senior Landon Comeans among players who had varsity carries last year.

The big addition, in more ways than one however, is senior fullback Drew Gibson, who is back on the field after sitting out the entire 2011 season to fully recover from Guillain Barre Syndrome. The disorder, where the body attacks itself, saw Gibson lose 40 pounds while being forced to miss a

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“Jay runs the ball hard.

Those two should be a good mix together for us,” said Hanson, who wouldn’t divulge much of anything about what formations the duo will be lining up in, while continuing to keep those plans under wraps for now.

Having earned a medical waiver, the 6-1, 230-pound Gibson has regained his strength while now picking up a Division I offer from Air Force with more expected to follow. On a recent practice day, Hanson said he had fielded a call from Oregon State about Gibson, who should also be a huge addition at middle linebacker.

When visiting reporters aren’t shielded by a wall of Lions players at practice, twoback sets have been prevalent both in I and pro-set formations.

“We may run four-wide,

season tickets Surprise her with these, and she’ll insist you watch every game!

shotgun ...,” Hanson teased. “I don’t know.”

On defense, his coordinator equally has remained hush-hush, with Weaver only reiterating that the goal is to attack at the line of scrimmage.

Joining Gibson should be a solid group of linebackers that also includes seniors Gavin Smith, Comeans and Edwin Rivera, who also transferred in from East Coweta after recording 49 tackles last season.

Along with the group of offensive linemen, Houser and Hogan also will be contributors near the line of scrimmage on defense.

Warner, Snelling, Shoates and Adams help lead a secondary corps that should also be deeper, and like nearly every aspect of the program, much improved.

As one Trinity parent stated at a recent practice, “There’s only one way for us to go.”

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Wednesday, August 22, 2012 — The Newnan Times-Herald — 5C

Heritage Christian crusaders

ICSGA 8-mAN Head coach: AL Williams

Gaining Ground

By CHRIS GOLTERMANN cgoltermann@newnan.com

A

seven-win season might as well have been double in the eyes of Heritage Christian football players.

After years of struggling to put together all the right numbers — whether in the size of a roster, the measurements of players or the total points on the scoreboard — the building blocks of a legitimate 8-man football contender seemed to all come to fruition in 2011.

Last year’s trip to the Independent Christian Schools of Georgia and Alabama playoffs was just the second in the short history of the sixth-year program.

A heartbreaking 46-43 loss to CrossPointe at its tail end equally proved Crusaders players weren’t satisfied with just making the postseason anymore following a 7-3 campaign, the first winning season in school history.

“We’ve made the playoffs before. The time before this one we kinda backed in,” Heritage Christian head coach Al Williams said. “This last one, they truly earned it.”

This year’s Crusader players, however feel there’s more than an encore possible following a trip to the postseason. There’s a hunger around the program as well a level of excitement about football which hasn’t been felt at the school since it began fielding a team in 2006.

“Before, teams thought they were going to run over us,” said 6-3, 235-pound senior guard Tyler Smith “Last year, when we started beating up on some teams we got that bullseye on our back.”

With seven seniors returning, a renewed effort in the weight room and a shift in defensive philosophy that hopes to cut down on the Arena League like shootouts 8-man football games can produce, Williams believes the program is headed in the right direction.

A spread-option offense instigated prior to the 2009 season that paid off with a running attack that averaged more than 250-yards a game.

Behind a line now averaging over 200-pounds after being outsized year after year helped pave the way for junior running back J.D. Farlow.

Last year, Heritage Christian’s offense averaged 48 points a game — highlighted by a 10-touchdown outburst against Auburn, Ala. rival Ballard — with returning senior quarterback Dutch Williams attempting less than 22 pass attempts all season.

“It was a plan that we started three years ago. We’ve been working on that. Two years ago, things started clicking. The next season, the kids understood it and we had two big

Nutrition Facts Serving Size 1 team

Heritage Christian 2012 ROSTER No. Name Pos. HT/WT Yr. 10 Gordon Smith DE/TE 6-1,180 Sr. 12 Caleb Plowman TE/LB 5-9,155 Sr. 15 Jesse Parkerson C/DG 5-9, 205 So. 17 Jared Farlow RB/LB 5-7,165 Fr. 18 Tyler Smith QB/G 6-3, 235 Sr. 20 Austin Stover RB/S 5-8, 175 So. 22 Dakota Rainey DB 5-10, 140 So. 30 Dutch Williams QB/LB 5-10, 155 Sr. 42 Christian Parkerson C/DG 6-0, 210 Jr. 44 Kevin Fidati WR/S 5-9, 165 Sr. 45 J.D. Farlow RB/LB 6-1, 215 Jr. 50 Austin Reaves LB/TE 6-2, 190 Sr. 55 Conner Haydon TE/G 6-1, 200 So. 60 Rodney Allen G 5-7, 185 So. 66 Bailey Todd S 5-10, 160 So. 71 Jeremiah Winkley T 6-0, 170 Jr. 74 Brent Schultz G 5-9, 200 Fr. 75 McKinley Reece G 5-8, 165 8th 80 Jerald Dewveall G 6-1, 290 So. 82 William Christenson S 5-10, 165 Sr. Head coach: Al Williams Assistants: Paul Frantz (Defensive coordinator), Kelby Holt (Offensive coordinator) Rob Caney, Joey Farlow (Special Teams), Andy Coggins (Offensive line, Strength and Conditioning).

20. “Once the kids figured out that they could win, and win big ... be on the other side of the mercy rule, it took off. Typically we normally lose a few to other programs. This year I think we actually gained a player or two.”

Nowadays, with the recent success as well as the ability to use homeschool students as well as those from Newnan Christian School to form a team in the ICSGA, Heritage Christian may soon have enough interest in football to begin fielding a junior varsity as well.

2011 Statistics “I really wanted to get a JV Rushing going because that’s the real No.Player Att. Yds Avg. TDs pipeline,” Williams said. “And 45 J.D. Farlow 185 1,583 8.6 25 they’re not discouraged. We 44 Noah Parkerson 127 844 6.7 13 have eighth and ninth graders 30 Dutch Williams 20 110 5.5 3 that probably won’t get as much 50 Austin Reeves 3 playing time this year. That’s Totals 332 2,537 7.6 44 just one of the rights of just learning how to play football.”

Passing Keeping the momentum, No. Player Comp. Att. Yards TDs INT however, means eliminating 30 Dutch Williams 12 17 198 5 1 weaknesses. First came the 50 Austin Reeves 3 5 33 3 0 offense and then, last year, Totals 15 22 231 8 1 assistant Andy Goggins went to work at making the Crusaders Receiving stronger with a new weight No. Player Rec. Yards Avg. TDs program that has also paid 50 Austin Reeves 6 165 27.5 dividends.

“You can definitely tell backs and the misdirection was the teachers are showing up,” we’re faster and stronger than really effective,” said coach Williams said. “It’s one of those we were last year,” said 6-0, Williams.

210-pound junior Christian things that just perpetuates Farlow, a bruising 6-1, 215Parkerson. “And we’re doing itself.” pound running back that it by mostly running, not passThe transition didn’t happen Williams used to call “Czonka” overnight, however. ing. Eight man’s might be a little during his youth football days more difficult. One man makes Williams remembers game finished his sophomore year nights not too long ago when all a mistake and someone’s going with 1,583 yard rushing and to the House.” of the right numbers belonged 25 touchdowns. Five colleges Parkerson centers a more to the opposition. During the scheduled to come watch him substantial and equally deeper earliest days of the program play this fall including Coastal offensive front than in previwhile as an assistant on the Carolina. ous years. Younger brother Crusaders staff, he remembers “It was fun,” Farlow said. “I practices where only eight play- Jesse, a sophomore, can also hope we can do it all again this play center, while the guards ers showed up. year.” include three more sophomores There were just as many Despite losing senior Noah — 290-pound Jerald Dewveal, previous fall Fridays in the Parkerson, who added 844 ICSGA when defenses might as Conner Haydon (6-1, 200) and yards and 13 touchdowns in Rodney Allen (5-7, 185) well have been in the Heritage 2011, Heritage will again turn to Christian huddle, their front “He didn’t just put a lot Williams at quarterback while of meat, but he added a lot lines already with their hands moving senior Austin Reeves of strength in these boys,” at a Crusader quarterback fol(6-2, 190), the team’s top return- lowing the final ‘hut.’

Williams said. “We’d like to ing receiver at tight end, to The result was only four wins be faster. If you average it out the offensive backfield. Jared in 2008, four more in 2009 and across the line, we’re probably Farlow, a 5-7, 165-pound fresheven less than that in 2010 over 220 plus [pounds]. I’ll take that man, and J.D.’s younger brother 10-game seasons each year. for eight man.” is the backup quarterback.

“I think back to some of the Junior Jeremiah Winkley Last year’s high-scoring games that we had years ago. also adds depth up front as a offense also produced a bit of a The refs would come up to us 6-0, 170 pound offensive tackle. culture change for home games after halftime and ask if we Seniors Gordon Smith and at East Coweta Middle School. wanted to start the mercy rule.

Caleb Plowman can play tight “We have full stadiums. The And we’d be like, ‘nah, nah, we end while senior Kevin Fidati school starts coming out, the want to get our subs in,” said can line up wide at receiver. parents start coming back, Williams, who has a roster of “We’ve still got a lot of guys

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2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 LaFayette Christian (LaGrange) Aug. 31 At Harvester Christian* (Douglasville) Sept. 7 At Colonial Hills

(Lithia Springs) Sept. 14 At CrossPointe (Williamson) Sept. 21 Life Christian (Albany) Sept. 28 Evangel (Montgomery, Ala.) Oct. 5 Holy Ground* (Roopville) Oct. 12 North Georgia* (Gainesville) Oct. 19 At Ballard (Ala.) Christian Oct. 26 Praise Academy*

(Powder Springs) * ICSGA Region game Home games at East Coweta Middle School 2011 Results (7-3) Aug. 26 Community Chr. L48-29 Sept. 2 At North Georgia W60-8 Sept. 9 At Praise Academy L52-14 Sept. 16 Harvester Chr. W52-8 Sept. 23 At Georgia-Alabama W46-36 Sept. 30 Grace Baptist W54-8 Oct. 7 Colonial Hills W52-7 Oct. 14 At Faith Christian W60-8 Oct. 28 Ballard Christian W68-54 ICSGA Playoffs Nov. 4 At CrossPointe* L46-43

gest linemen on the team, has also become an accomplished kicker and provides a boost on special teams.

Meanwhile, Williams feels the continuity of the staff — most of which has been together for four years — has been as much a positive toward the most recent success.

The Crusader staff nowadays outnumbers some GISA programs while made of a combination of staff and outside volunteers, most of which are parents like Williams.

“There’s big expectations,” Williams said. “How do we do this year? I don’t know. We continue to perpetuate it, I hope.”

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who are going to play both sides, but they’ll get rest this year, which is huge,” Williams said.

The most recent chapter in the makeover this fall comes with coordinator Paul Frantz’s new defense that hopes to use Heritage Christian’s strength to its advantage and keep the Crusaders out of shootouts such as last year’s 68-54 victory over rival Ballard Christian.

“This year we’ve gone more to a zone defense, so we’re hoping it really pays off instead of having to outscore people,” Williams said. “After the Ballard game, we said, ‘We’ve got to fix this. The teams we did get beat on, they had some decent speed. [I’d rather] we’ll give up three or four yards on a pass.”

The victory over Ballard, one of Heritage Christian’s biggest and most long-standing rivals, was only the second ever in the series and the first since the Crusaders’ inaugural season. It saw the Crusaders rush for over 528 yards on 68 attempts. Over the spring practice period, the schools scrimmaged again, with Heritage also defeating Evangel by two points among a pair of exhibitions.

“They were undefeated when we played them and we beat them by three touchdowns,” Smith said. “It sent a message to the whole league.”

Newcomer William Christenson, a 5-10, 165-pound first-year senior gives Heritage an athlete capable of playing safety while joining Fidati and sophomores Austin Stover and Dakota Rainey.

“William’s gone from not playing football to really being somebody that we’re going to be able to use,” coach Williams said. “His brother played with us last year. So that was a nice asset to pick up.”

Both Farlow brothers, Dutch Williams, Reaves and Plowman make up the linebacking corps.

The Parkerson brothers will both play at defensive guard while senior Gordon Smith lines up at one of the ends.

Tyler Smith, one of the stron-

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Senior quarterback Dutch Williams and running back J.D. Farlow are back to lead a Heritage Christian offense that gained over 2,500 rushing yards last year while finishing its best season in school history.

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6C — The Newnan Times-Herald — Wednesday, August 22, 2012

REgion 3-AAAAAA Our Predicted Order of Finish in Region 3AAAAAA (2011 record in parenthesis) NEWNAN (6-6) — Only thing holding back Cougars to start year is inexperienced offense. If QB Bryant Bailey and company start to click early like they did in last week’s scrimmage with Griffin, look out.

TRI-CITIES (10-3) — Massive front line with four future Division I players could give the Bulldogs an edge heading into season. Inexperience at skill positions could bring Dawgs down to Earth.

EAST COWETA (7-4) — Running back Dee Godfrey may be most elusive back in region. The defense, with only Godfrey returning, has to be restocked. Senior kicker Spencer Smith is an asset some opponents won’t possess.

LANGSTON-HUGHES (3-7) — The sleeper. With seven back on offense and all 11 starters returning on defense, only question is whether fourth-year program can finally mature into a consistent winner.

WESTLAKE (4-6) —Sleeper No. 2. Should Hughes be unable to make the big leap this year, the Lions could become a wild card in the playoff race under former Atlanta Falcon player Stanley Pritchett.

DOUGLAS COUNTY (2-8) — First-year coach Jason Respert takes over a program that hadn’t suffered through a 2-win season in 16 years until 2011. Quarterback Ellis Richardson might not be enough to pay dividends.

Something in common: New region brings parity

By CHRIS GOLTERMANN cgoltermann@newnan.com While maybe not at the mudslinging scale of the country’s two presidential candidates just a few short weeks from Election Day, rival head football coaches don’t typically have friendly conversations with one another unless it comes with a cordial handshake during pregame warmups.

In Region 3-AAAAAA, however, Newnan’s Mike McDonald and East Coweta head coach Clint Wade might as well be blood brothers.

Each found themselves trying to find five non-region games when reclassification in the Georgia High School Association placed both Newnan and East Coweta in a six-team alignment with former region holdovers Langston Hughes and Westlake along with newcomers Douglas County and Tri-Cities.

“We talked a lot during last spring about that. There were many sleepless nights probably for Clint and I about the schedule,” McDonald said. “It was hard.”

With a smaller region, however, comes greater opportunity this year for equality. While three of the six 3-AAAAAA members were playoff teams in 2011, none won their previous football regions during the 2010-11 and 2011-12 reclassification period.

“There’s a lot of parity in the region right now. There’s not really one team that heads above the rest,” McDonald said.

“That ought to make things interesting.”

‘Interesting’ certainly doesn’t mean ‘easy.’ This year’s vote among 3-AAAAAA coaches and media members saw four of the six teams earning at least one first-place nod, with Tri-Cities’ 64 points leading Newnan (53), East Coweta (43), Westlake (42), Langston Hughes (39) and Douglas County (12).

None of the six schools enter 2012 without carrying at least one or two areas of doubt.

Playing within a competitive Region 2-AAAAA alignment — where East Coweta and Newnan both traded third and fourth place finishes the last two years — has produced some positives.

“The last two years with the competition, it really has helped us get a little bit better,” Wade said at this year’s Preseason Region 3-AAAAAA meeting.

“You’re always trying to raise the bar.”

DOUGLAS COUNTY TIGERS Head Coach: Jason Respert (1st season, 0-0 overall) Program Record: 380-368-19 (.508) State Titles: 1 (1964) Offense: Multiple: Defense: 4-3 2011 Record: 2-8 Preseason Poll: 6th Recent History: 2011: 2-8; 2010 :5-5; 2009: 5-5; 2008: 3-7 Last playoff season: 2007 Last time missed playoffs: 2011 Key Losses: WR DJ Fluellen (All-Region 5-AAAA South First Team), LB Lacurtis Campbell (First Team), DE/DT Brandon Bostic (Second Team), LB Trai Brown (Second Team), DB Rashawd Dixon (Second Team), OL Bill Sheppard (Second Team), TE Elliot Thompson (Second Team).

Key Returners: QB/S Ellis Richardson (6-3, 220, Sr.), WR Anthony Graves (5-11, 170, Sr.)., S Nigel Hale (5-11, 170, Sr.), CB Germaine Burroughs (5-9, 179, Sr.) RB/CB Anthony Garner (5-9, 170, Sr), S Tray Miller (5-11, 190, Sr.), LB Terrell Gibson (5-10, 180, Sr.), DL Jay Harris (6-4, 270, Sr), S Drew Sanders (5-11, 170, Sr.), DE Nashon Hester (6-0, 200, Jr.) Strengths: Established quarterback, skill players on offense; Most of defensive secondary returns and should be deepest position.

Areas of Concern: Lots of changes with new coach, staff. Heavy losses on both sides of the line and at linebacker.

Coach Speak: “The only thing that wasn’t changed was the school colors.” — Head coach Jason Respert 2011 RESULTS (2-8) Aug. 26 Hiram L21-14 Sept. 3 At Warner Robins L56-0 Sept. 9 East Paulding L51-6 Sept. 16 At Chapel Hill L21-20 Sept. 23 Villa Rica L 49-35 Sept. 30 At Alexander L19-7 Oct. 7 Lithia Springs W20-19 Oct. 14 At South Paulding L34-17 Oct. 28 Paulding County W22-0 Nov. 4 At North Paulding L21-19 2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 31 At Chapel Hill Sept. 7 South Cobb Sept. 14 Chattahoochee Sept. 21 At Warner Robins Sept. 28 At Harris County Oct. 12 At Langston Hughes* Oct. 19 Westlake* Oct. 26 At Newnan* Nov. 2 East Coweta* Nov. 9 At Tri-Cities* * Region 3-AAAAAA game Outlook: Douglas County, coming off its least successful campaign in 16 years, turns its program over to 30-year-old Jason Respert, a former two-time AllState lineman at Northside-Warner Robins and the University of Tennessee. Respert worked under high school coach Conrad Nix as well as an equally strong program at Peach County before serving as offensive coordinator at Howard High in Macon last year.

Last year’s struggles had the Tigers averaging just 16 points-per-game and allowing over 29.

gram over the first five years as a head coach —knows his team has bigger adjustments to make this season.

The Bulldogs return only one linebacker with starting experience and will turn to safety Demetrius McClendon for help in depleted secondary.

Along with the four starting defensive linemen — all of whom will be playing on both sides of the ball —seniors Christopher Harmon (6-0, 315), JaMicah Williams (5-8, 197) and junior Jordan Nutt (6-1, 200) add a bit of depth on Tri-Cities 50-front.

Junior quarterback Karim Wallace, at 6-1, 215 pounds, is slated to lead the offense.

Running backs Anthony Cox (5-9, 187) and Dwayne Gay (5-8, 215), along with receiver Torei Jones (6-0, 175) hope to offset the losses at skill positions to graduation.

Punter Chris Hernandez (5-11, 200), an All-State selection also is back.

LANGSTON HUGHES PANTHERS Head Coach: Willie Cannon (4th year, 7-22 overall) Program Record: 7-22 (.241) State Titles: None.

Returning Starters: Offense — 7; Defense — 11 Offense: Multiple (2 back, spread) Defense: 4-3 2011 Record: 3-7 Recent History: 2010: 2-8; 2009: 2-7.

Last Playoff Season: None Last Time Missed Playoffs: 2011 Preseason Poll: 5th Key Losses: RB D.J. Payne Key Returners: QB Kenny Moxey (5-9, 170, Jr.), WR/CB ‘Bingo’ Morton (6-2, 190, Jr., All-Region 2-AAAAA Second Team), S Deontez Williams (5-10, 170, Sr.), CB Joshua Fuller (5-9, 170, Sr.), S Andrekay Askew (6-2, 190, Sr.); RB Erick Peek (5-9, 160, Sr), LB Montavious Atkinson (6-0, 180, So.), DE DeAndre Walker (6-2, 190, So.), DE Jeremiah Culbreth (6-3, 220, So.); OL Jahlil MathisEllis (6-2, 290, So); WR Carlos Merritt (6-0, 170, Sr.); OL Trevor Arnold (6-2, 230, Sr.); K Stefan Whitehead (5-9, 140, Sr.) Strengths: Deep group of receivers, largest group of returning starters in region.

First senior class of 23 players one of largest in 3-AAAAAA. Speed, quickness at nearly every position.

Areas of Concern: Need RBs to emerge, depth on offensive, defensive lines, overall size. Still a very young team that has yet to post a winning record.

Coach Speak: “ We’re hoping that experience turns into a positive for us.” — Panthers assistant Travis Smith.

2011 RESULTS (3-7) Aug. 26 Osborne* W25-14 Sept. 2 Campbell* W33-18 Sept. 10 At Columbia L9-0 Sept. 23 M.L. King* L42-7 Sept. 30 At Newnan* L38-21 Oct. 7 East Coweta* W35-14 Oct. 14 At Stephenson* L46-0 Oct. 21 At Luella* L20-13 Oct. 28 Newton* L23-3 Nov.4 At Westlake* W40-18 * Region 2-AAAAA Game 2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 31 Creekside Sept. 7 At Luella Sept. 14 Wheeler Sept. 21 At Rockdale County Sept. 27 At Newton (Thurs.)

Oct. 12 Douglas County* Oct. 19 At Newnan* Oct. 26 East Coweta* Nov. 2 At Tri-Cities* Nov. 9 Westlake* * Region 3-AAAAAA Game Outlook: After taking their lumps with freshmen and sophomore starters, the Panthers possess more returners than any other lineup in the new Region 3-AAAAAA alignment. The team’s victory this summer in the Big South 7-on-7 Shootout, which included two wins over a Griffin team that went 9-3 last year, is proof that hard work is beginning to pay off. Hughes could be in the hunt for more than just the program’s first state playoff berth.

TRI-CITIES BULLDOGS Head Coach: Kenneth Miller (Fifth year, 26-18 overall) Program Record: 98-148-2 State Titles: None Returning Starters: Offense 4; Defense 2 Offense: Wing-T Defense: 50 2011 Record: 10-3 Recent History: 2010: 7-4; 2009: 5-5; 2008: 4-6 Last playoff season: 2011 (Class AAAA Quarterfinals) Last time missed playoffs: 2009 Preseason Poll: 1st Key Losses: Xavier Robertson, Key Returners: OL/DL Dominique Threatt (6-4, 330, Sr.; All-State; South Florida commit), OL/DL Shamire Devine (6-7, 331, Sr; Georgia Tech commit), OL/DL Jeremi Hall (6-5, 350, Sr.; Georgia Tech commit), OL/DL Marcus Adams (6-0, 280, Sr.; Western Kentucky commit); LB Hector Godinez (5-9, 170, Jr.), LB Michael Shealey (5-8, 145); P Chris Hernandez (5-11, 200, Sr.; All-State), WR Torei Jones (6-0, 175) Newcomers: QB Karim Wallace (6-1, 215, Jr.), Anthony Cox (5-9, 187), Dwayne Gay (5-8, 215).

Strengths: Offensive, defensive line.

Areas of Concern: Lots of new faces at quarterback, running back, wide receiver and linebacker. Secondary needs to be rebuilt.

Coach Speak: “Inexperience is one thing that I’m very leary of. Once you get behind those guys on the line we don’t have a lot of depth. And when you’re playing in a tough six-A region, depth is the key.” — Tri-Cities head coach Kenneth Miller Outlook: No school in the state may have a group of linemen as talented as the Bulldogs. But overall depth is lacking.

The program also lost nearly all of its skill position players from its most successful season in school history while making the added jump from Class AAAA. 2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 31 Washington Sept. 7 At Banneker Sept. 14 At Creekside Sept. 21 Carver-Columbus Sept. 28 At Carver, Ala. Oct. 12 Newnan* Oct. 19 At East Coweta* Oct. 26 At Westlake* Nov. 2 Langston Hughes* Nov. 9 Douglas County* * Region 3-AAAAAA Game 2011 RESULTS (10-3) Aug. 26 Jonesboro* L35-17 Sept. 3 At Forest Park* W49-6 Sept. 9 Creekside* W40-20 Sept. 17 At Riverdale* W40-20 Sept. 23 Mundy’s Mill* W24-6 Oct. 1 At Lovejoy* L24-20 Oct. 7 North Clayton* W35-28 Oct. 15 At Morrow* W52-7 Oct. 21 Banneker* W35-7 Nov. 4 Mt. Zion-Jonesboro*W 35-14 * Region 4-AAAA Game Class AAAA State Playoffs Nov. 11 At Alcovy W51-28 Nov. 18 At Pope W35-0 Nov. 25 At Northside-WR L36-8

WESTLAKE LIONS Head Coach: Stanley Pritchett (1st year 0-0; Overall: 21-19, Four seasons) Program Record: 148-110-0 State Titles: 0 Returning Starters: N/A Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3 2011 Record: 4-6 Recent History: 2010 — 3-7; 2009 — 7-4; 2008 — 6-4; 2007 — 5-5 Last playoff season: 2009 Last time missed playoffs: 2011 Preseason Poll: 4th Key Losses: WR Khalil Stinson (All-Region 2-AAAAA First Team, 646 yds, 7 TDs), TE Devin Anderson (All-Region Second Team), OL Brice Smith (All-Region Second Team), RB Charles Purnell (All-Region Second Team), OL Adrian Jacklyn (All-Region Second Team), DT Adrian Dunmyer (AllRegion Second Team), OLB Henry Jackson (All-Region Second Team), S Antonio Thomas (All-Region Second Team), P Armani Harvey (All-Region First Team).

Key Returners: QB Renaud Battle (6-0, 185, Sr.), WR T.J. Reece (5-10, 170, Sr.), WR Chris Daniel (6-1, 180, Sr.), RB Joshua Poole (5-10, 175, So), RB Jordan Thomas (5-7, 170, So.), OL Jordan Shaw (6-3, 265, Jr.); MLB Tyrone Pope (6-2, 215); DL Dwight Moore )5-10, 265, Jr.) CB Terrence Montgomery (5-9, 165), Newcomers: DB/ATH Lonnie Perryman Strengths: Deep secondary Areas of Concern: Offensive line, size, overall depth. Small senior class.

Coach Speak: “We’re just trying to change the culture. The last few years they’ve been down. But there’s a lot of talent.” — Head coach Stanley Pritchett Outlook: Going through a coaching change with a roster including 10 seniors, this season is as much about transition for a program that has lost some of its luster in recent years. Head coach Stanley Pritchett, who took Washington to the playoffs in back-to-back years before spending the 2011 season at North Atlanta, feels the school still has the potential to produce Division I-level talent. Much of this year’s success will be measured with how well he can change its culture.

2011 RESULTS Aug. 26 At Washington W14-6 Sept. 3 At McNair W35-13 Sept. 9 At Colquitt County L21-10 Sept. 16 At M.L. King* L35-14 Sept. 23 Stephenson* L56-35 Oct. 7 Newnan* L33-7 Oct. 14 At East Coweta* W31-21 Oct. 22 At Newton* L21-7 Oct. 28 Luella* W33-15 Nov. 4 Langston Hughes* L40-18 * Region 2-AAAAA Gamew 2012 SCHEDULE Aug. 24 Hillgrove Aug. 31 At South Cobb Sept. 7 At Creekside Sept. 14 Banneker Sept. 21 At Bainbridge Oct. 12 East Coweta* Oct. 19 At Douglas County* Oct. 26 Tri-Cities* Nov. 2 Newnan* Nov. 9 At Langston Hughes* * Region 3-AAAAAA Game

who expects to have just 10 on this year’s opening day roster.

“Of this year’s seniors, seven or eight will definitely play.”

Pritchett arrives at the school following a year as head coach at North Atlanta, which finished 2-7.

“We’re just trying to change the culture,” Pritchett said.

The catalyst for much of last year’s success was quarterback Renard Battle, who is a potential All-State candidate. Battle, a 6-0, 185 senior, is “a great athlete,” who “can make all the throws. We’re going to be multiple. We want to run the ball, protect the ball.”

Battle will have a pair of senior receivers as targets, T.J. Reece (5-10, 170) and Chris Daniel (6-1, 180). Sophomores Joshua Poole (5-10, 175), a track standout, and Jordan Thomas (5-7, 170) lead the backfield, while junior Jordan Shaw (6-3, 265) provides size and skill up front as the lone returning starter to the offensive line.

Transfer Lonnie Perryman, should help make Westlake’s secondary a strength of the Lions’ defense.

DOUGLAS COUNTY Douglas County first-year coach Jason Respert has the same goal while trying to turn around a Tigers program that suffered its first two-win season in 16 years. His initial head coaching job comes after assisting former high school coach Conrad Nix at Northside Warner-Robins, where Respert was a two-time All-State offensive lineman before moving on to the University of Tennessee.

He spent last season as the offensive coordinator at Howard High School in Macon.

Last year’s Douglas County team struggled in all phases, averaging 16 points a game and allowing close to 30.

“Our goal is to change the culture of football at Douglas County. Our goal is to step on the field and play hard. We’re excited about the direction we’re going,” Respert said.

Respert feels senior quarterback Ellis Richardson (6-3, 220) provides a centerpiece to build around after throwing for 1,227 yards with 11 TDs and five interceptions.

“He’s got all the tools,” said the Tigers head coach.

Junior Juanya Smith led last year’s team with 446 yards on 72 carries and will be counted on even heavier this year following the graduation of Jon Willis (426).

when we were getting beat up WestLAKE two first-year head coaches in a little bit,” said Panthers assisAt Westlake, former NFL 3-AAAAAA. tant Travis Smith. “We’re hop- player and Atlanta Falcon “We lost 22 seniors from last ing that experience turns into a Stanley Pritchett is one of year’s team,” said Pritchett, positive for us.”

Langston Hughes put together an impressive title-winning effort in this summer’s Big South 7-on-7 Shootout while Tri-Cities defeating Griffin twice, along Region front-runner Triwith Whitewater, Mt. ZionCities may be a worthy favorite Jonesboro and Salem. considering the program’s 10-3 Junior Bingo Morton (6-1, record last year during a trip 175), a Second Team All-Region to the Class AAAA quarterfi2-AAAAA selection, senior nals — the most successful in Carlos Merritt (6-1, 170) and its 24 seasons of varsity play.

Trevon Badger leading a talFifth-year head coach Kenneth ented unit.

Miller also returns the largSmith expects a “runest crop of Division I-ready ning back by committee” athletes led by four senior with junior Keion Davis, linemen. senior Eric Peek and Robert They include 300-pounders Saunders all getting a chance — Shamire Devine (6-7, 331) to pick up carries. and Jeremi Hall (6-5, 350) — “We’ll do a lot of stuff. Pro, both of whom have committed two-back sets and also spread to Georgia Tech. it out some,” said Smith.

Joining Devine and Hall up “Expectations are little higher front are two more Division than they have been.”

I prospects in linemen The offensive line has three Dominique Threatt and returners back. The unit has Marcus Adams. Threatt, at 2009, 2011 ample size in junior guards 6-2, 294-pounds has committed LANGSTON HUGHES Jahlil Mathis-Ellis (6-2, 295) to South Florida, while the 6-0, While Tri-Cities’ success and Austin McCall (6-1, 280 Adams gave a verbal commitment to Western Kentucky. last year is a prime reason why 280) as well as tackle Trevor Threatt was an All-State selec- the program garnered seven of Arnold (6-2, 250). Center 12 first-place votes, Langston Quandarius Simon, at 5-10, tion on the offensive line in Hughes leads the region among 175-pounds, is the smallest of 2011. the group, but has made sizable “Everybody’s probably heard returning starters in 2012.

2011 Seven starters, led by junior contributions when calling out a lot about the line that we quarterback Kenny Moxey blitzes. have,” said Tri-Cities head (6-0, 155) return on offense.

Langston Hughes hopes to coach Kenneth Miller. “We There are even less changes cash in this season after starting have seventeen or eighteen from 2011 on defense, with all four freshmen in 2011 including seniors, but a lot of them may 11 starters back. inside linebacker Montavious be ‘senior/freshman’ quote, On paper, Hughes’ 25 seniors Atkinson (6-1, 180). unquote. Inexperience is one and 18 returning starters are Another second-year starter, thing that I’m very leary of. by far the most among the sophomore DeAndre Walker Once you get behind those region’s six schools. How well (6-2, 195) came along quickly guys on the line we don’t have on the defensive line and a lot of depth. And when you’re those numbers translate into the 4-3 set again expects to playing in a tough six-A region, victories for a program that Take the short drive: has gone 7-26 so far, is another include sophomore Jeremiah depth is the key.” question that will have to be Culbreth (6-2, 195) this year.

Even with its big guys, 150 HWY. 27 • I-20 EXIT 11 • BREMEN Junior Robert Saunders Miller — who has compiled an answered this fall.

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Wednesday, August 22, 2012 — The Newnan Times-Herald — 7C

REgion 4B-AAAAA Our Predicted Order of Finish in Region 4B-AAAA (2011 record in parenthesis)

Northgate (11-1): With three future ACC/SEC players returning on defense, the Vikings have a chance to build off the best record in school history.

Whitewater (7-3): After missing out on state playoffs despite a solid 7-3 record, the Wildcats may be more hungry than ever Creekside: (5-5): Young new head coach should benefit from Berry brothers, stable of returning athletic talent available Starr’s Mill (5-5): Panthers trying to get back into playoffs after year absence, but will have to do it without RB John Smith, who it out for the season with a broken leg.

McIntosh (1-10): The Chiefs have put together a handful of big wins over the past few years, but have struggled to become a consistant winner.

Northgate in good company in 4B-AAAAA

By DOUG GORMAN dgorman@newnan.com Northgate football coach Tommy Walburn is trying to convince his team to put last year’s undefeated regular season and region title in its rear view mirror and with good reason.

The Vikings have more pressing matters to deal with as they move into a newly formed Region 3B-AAAAA. Northgate’s five-team’s in the subregion includes Creekside (5-5) Starr’s Mill (5-5), McIntosh (1-9) and Whitewater (7-3).

Perhaps the best way to describe this half of the subregion is one with lots of tradition.

Except for McIntosh, the subregion is made up of programs that have made the postseason over the last few years.

Although Northgate was the only team from the subregion to make the playoffs last year, Walburn knows there’s plenty of football tradition in the league and it could be a fight to grab one of the playoff spots in 2012.

“We know we can’t look past anybody,”Walburn said.

“The good thing about this subregion is the schools are close together and there should be some really good rivalries. One thing is for sure, there are some good football teams in this league.”

Perhaps Northgate’s biggest competition will come from rival Whitewater who like the Vikings, was a member of Region 4-AAAA last year.

The Wildcats 27-24 loss to the Vikings in 2012 helped keep Whitewater out of the playoffs despite a 7-3 record.

Whitewater comes into the year still trying to find a quarterback to replace Jon Mark Rhodes, but there are some skill players returning to the line up, especially at receiver where Jake Carlson and Trevor Morgan return.

The Wildcats edged East Coweta 20-13 in their scrimmage last week Whitewater could have an edge in the kicking game against most opponents as Austin Bernard returns to punt an handle the kicking duties.

Bernard booted a 50-yard with room to spare against the Indians.

“After missing last year’s state playoffs by one game, we are optimistic about this year’s team,” head coach Amos McCreary said.

McCreary has been the school’s head coach since it opened in 2004 and has lead the Wildcats to the playoffs four times.

For Whitewater it could just come down to his younger players growing up.

“The Wildcats’ success will be determined by how quick the young players can adapt to the intensity and speed of the varsity game.

“Defensively, I think we should be pretty strong due to the number of returning starters. If the defense can carry us early, it will open up opportunities for the young offense to get that necessary game experience to carry us into the playoffs later on in the season,” McCreary said Creekside comes into the league after a 5-5 record in 2011.

But if history repeats itself, Creekside should be one of teams to beat. Despite missing out on the playoffs last year, that is a rarity for the Seminoles, who have been to the playoffs five of the last eight years.

Aaron Whitington takes over as the team’s head coach, but like the rest of the league, there is plenty of tradition.

The biggest question mark heading into the 2012 season is how quickly Creekside

players will get on board with what the new coaching staff is trying to put in place.

Twin brothers Evan and Elliott are continuing the Berry family tradition as they enter their sophomore year at Creekside.

Both are siblings of Kansas City cornerback Eric Berry.

Evan is expected to handle the quarterback duties as the new regime takes over at the Fairburn School.

Chad Phillips is trying to get Starr’s Mill back into the playoffs after a 5-5 record last season.

The Panthers suffered a set back during the preseason when running back John Smith broke his leg.

Smith was the offensive catalyst for the squad as a sophomore in 2011 after running for 1,200 yards and 22 TDs. “We must play better on defense, and a tough schedule is a reason for concern. “ Phillips said.

McIntosh comes into the league trying to get past the last year’s disappointing 1-9 record. The Chiefs have very little football tradition over the years, but second-year head coach Lee Belknap is trying to change that.

The Chiefs’ last winning record came in 1997 by with six returning players coming back on offense and five on defense, Belknap is convinced the pieces are in place for break the drought.

It starts at quarterback as Andrew Johnson returns to the position. Brian White could be his favorite target.

“We expect to compete in every game and play hard,” Belknap said. “We believe this kind of effort will help us make it to the postseason.

The other half of the region includes Forest Park, Mt. Zion (2-8), Mundy’s Mill (4-6) , Union Grove (5-5), Ola (2-8) and Drew (7-4).

Creekside Seminoles Colors: Burgundy and Gold Head Coach: Aaron Whittington (First Year) 2011 Record: 5-5 Recent History: 2010—8-3, 2009— 6-4, 2008—7-4, 2007—7-4 Key players: QB Evan Berry (Jr, 5-11, 193), RB Elliott Berry ( Jr, 5-11, 195), S Trevonious Britt (Jr, 5-9, 165), OL Jako Williams (Jr, 5-11, 275 pounds) and WR Michael Leverett (5-9, 180) Strengths: Plenty of experience coming back at skill postions.

Area of Concern: Trying to replace Josh Holsey’s 24 career interceptions will be one of the Seminoles’ biggest test in 2012.

2011 results (5-5) Morrow W68-0 Banneker L 21-6 Tri-Cities L35-12 Mt. Zion-Jonesboro W 21-7 Jonesboro L 19-13 Forest Park W45-7 Riverdale W 33-12 Mundy’s Mill W 35-20 Lovejoy L 24-0 North Clayton L14-8 2012 Schedule Aug. 31 at Langston Hughes Sept. 7 Westlake Sept. 14 Tri-Cities Sept. 21 at Forest Park Sept. 28 Mt. Zion-Jonesboro Oct. 5 At Starr’s Mill* Oct. 12 Northgate* Oct. 19 At Whitewater * Oct. 26 McIntosh* Nov. 9 Region-play in * Region 4B-AAAAA Game Outlook: Creekside is trying to get back into the playoffs after a year away.

Whittington makes his debut with the Seminoles and takes over a program with a lot of tradition. He played his college football at UCLA. The Seminoles most famous graduate is Eric Berry a former All-American at Tennessee who now plays for the Kansas City Chiefs.

Replacing Josh Holsey in the secondary might be one of the new coaching staff’s biggest challenges. Holsey signed with Auburn after finishing with 24 career interceptions.

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McIntosh Chiefs Colors: Black, White and Green Head Coach: Lee Belknap (Second year, 1-9) Starters returning: Offense: 6; Defense: 5 Offensive formation: Spread Option Defensive formation: 4-2-5 2011 Record: 1-9 Recent History: 2010 —2-8, 2009 — 4-6, 2008—2-8 Key Returners: QB Andrew Johnson (5-11, 180), WR Brian White (5-5, 140), OT Drew Saunders (6-1, 245), OT Jay Wilson (6-0, 220), DT Joe Kelley (6-0, 215), Ian Timmins (5-7, 150), LB Jake Carney (5-8, 170).

C ollege Prospe c t s: OL Drew Saunders (SR, 6-1, 230) Strengths: Quarterback, receivers.

Area of Improvement: Kicking game due to graduation.

Outlook: “We expect to play in and play hard every game, we believe this kind of effort will give us a chance to make the playoffs,” said second year coach Lee Belknap.

2011 Results: Pike County L 35-14 Dutchtown L22-17 Jones County W 29-28 Northgate L 30-14 Harris County L 32-10 Starr’s Mill L35-0 Whitewater L 38-3 Fayette County L 35-7 Upson Lee 13-7 Ola L 22-21 2012 Scheule Aug. 31 at North Springs Sept. 7 Alexander Sept. 14 Ola Sept. 21 at Drew Sept. 28 Mundy’s Mill Oct. 12 at Whitewater* Oct. 19 Starr’s Mill* Oct. 26 at Creekside* Nov. 2 at Northgate* Nov. 9 Region Play in Game * Region 4B-AAAA Game

Starr’s Mill Panthers Colors: Blue, Black and White Coach: Chad Phillips (third year, 19-6) Starters returning: Offense: 4; Defense 4 Offense: Multiple Defense: Base 50 2011 record: 5-5 Key Returners: OLB. H-back Hayden Beyer (6-2, 190), DL Kery Ostrowski (6-1, 200), OL: Garrison Elliott (6-0, 270) Evan Krug (6-1, 250), OL Nick Petry (6-2, 245), P Grant Aasen (6-1, 195).

College Prospects: OL Hayden Frye (SR, 6-3, 240); OL Garrison Elliott (SR, 6-2, 260); OL Nic Petry (SR, 6-3, 230); DL Evan Krug (SR, 6-1, 260); DL Ryan Nace (SR, 6-2, 250); ATH Timothy Roberts (SR, 6-1, 180); ATH Joshua Roberts (SR, 6-2, 180).

Strengths: Wide receivers/Specialists Areas of Concern: Team’s top running back, 1,000-yard rusher John Smith, broke his leg and is out for the season.

Outlook: Smith scored 22 touchdowns as a sophomore last year so someone else will have to emerge as the Panthers’ top ball carrier 2011 Results: Coosa W 23-21 Woodland (Henry) W 9-7 Alcovy L 47-31 Upson-Lee L 17-7 Whitewater L 31-9 Fayette County W 27-14 McIntosh W 35-0 Northgate L 41-21 Harris County L 28-21 Dutchtown W 27-26 2012 Schedule Aug. 31 North Cobb Sept. 7 at Fayette County Sept. 14 at West Forsyth Sept. 21 at Mt. Zion Sept. 28 Drew Oct. 5 Creekside * Oct. 19 At McIntosh* Oct. 26 Northgate* Nov. 2 Whitewater* Nov. 9 Region Play-in

Whitewater Wildcats Coach: Amos McCreary (50-22, 8 seasons) Starters returning: Offense 3; Defense: 6 Offense: Multiple I Defense 3-5 Key Returners: S/ WR Jake Carlson , OL/DL Patrick Dalton , OL Levi Kerlin, P/K Austin Bernard, CB/WR Malcom Graham, DE/G Dylan Davis, LB/RB Colten Clemens, SS/ RB Kendall Conley, LB/RB Christian Wafford, DE/FB Russell Welch, WR/SN Trevor Morgan College Prospects: WR Jake Carlson (SR, 6-1, 180); OL Pat Dalton (SR, 6-7, 350); OL Levi Kerlin (SR, 6-2, 280); RB Kendall Conley (SR, 5-11, 180); LB Colton Clemmons (JR, 6-0,200); CB Malcholm Graham (SR, 6-1, 180); DE Dylan Davis (SR, 6-2, 220) Strengths: Kicking Game and Defense Areas of Concern:: Quarterback Outlook: Whitewater plans on using its strong special teams and its defense to keep the team in games as its offense works on replacing players lost to graduation.

2011 Results Sandy Creek L 43-20 Ola W 23-7 Union Grove W13-10 Harris County W 14-12 Starr’s Mil W 31-9 Upson-Lee W 14-7 Fayette County W 23-6 McIntosh W 38-3 Northgate L 27-24 Griffin L 23-22 2012 Schedule Aug. 24 Coffee Sept. 7 At Mundy’s Mill Sept. 14 At Fayette County Sept. 21 At Union Grove Sept. 28 Forest Park Oct. 5 Northgate* Oct. 12 McIntosh* Oct. 19 Creekside* Nov. 2 At Starr’s Mill* Nov. 9 Region Play-In Game * Region 4B-AAAA Game

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8C — The Newnan Times-Herald — Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Where are they now?

Air Force ALEX LAKES, RB, Fr. (Northgate) — Lakes follows a trend of former Northgate sports stars to attend the Academy behind cornerback Carson Bird and linebacker Andre Morris. The 5-10, 197 pound freshman earned coOffensive Player of the Year as a senior while rushing for 1,270 yards and 19 touchdowns. Lakes, who also started at safety, was part of a recruiting class that also included Arlington Christian cornerback/receiver Kalon Baker. Both will play for the Air Force Prep Academy team this year.

LENDELL ARNOLD, WR, So. (Newnan) — Arnold, who originally signed with Lenoir-Rhyne, played for the Air Force Prep Academy team last season while listed as a receiver. Arnold played receiver at Newnan High before starting at quarterback for the Cougars during his junior and senior years.

Army JAKE PETERSON, OL, Fr. (Northgate) —Peterson recently graduated from the United States Military Academy Predatory Schools (USMAPS) in May, playing on its prep team while earning two of its Delta Awards. The 6-2, 235-pound lineman, who started at middle linebacker as a senior with the Vikings after playing offensive line, will join Army’s Division I program this fall.

Benedict College EMMANUEL HOUSTON, RB, Sr. (Newnan) — The 5-9, 170-pound Houston led the Tigers in receiving last year in all categories with 28 catches for 379 yards and six touchdowns. The former Cougar was also the program’s top kick returner with a 17.7-yard average. His seven touchdowns also led Benedict in scoring.

SHAQ WARNER, WR, So. (Newnan) — The 6-2, 187-pound former Cougar receiver returns for his sophomore season after seeing action in two of the Tigers’ final four games in 2011.

Carson Newman TOBY SLAGLE, QB, So. (Northgate) — The former Viking starter enters his second season with the Eagles. He will be competing among a group of five quarterbacks led by senior and Rockmart graduate Brandon Haywood Catholic University JIMMIE REID, OL, FR. (Newnan) — Reid was part of the Division III program’s most recent signing class.

University of the Cumberlands MITCH McTIER, OF, Fr. (East Coweta) — McTier capped off his career by returning from an ACL injury and earning All-County and All-Region honors as a senior.

Delta State CODY WEAVER, OL, So. (Northgate) — The 6-4, 270-pound former Viking standout offensive lineman enters his second year with the Gulf South Conference program.

Faulkner DIAMOND LESLIE, DL, Fr. (Newnan) — The 6-2, 213-pound defensive lineman was part of last year’s signing class with the Eagles.

Furman RYAN STORMS, OL, Jr. (East Coweta) — The 6-2, 257-pound offensive guard has blossomed into a starter since being a stalwart on the Indians’ front line in high school. Last year, Storms started nine games at right guard while grading out at a seasonhigh 80 percent against Elon.

Fort Valley State D’LONZO HARRIS, LB, Fr. (Northgate) — Harris, an All-County performer as a senior while helping lead the Vikings to a Region 3-AAAA championship in 2011, was a member of Fort Valley State’s signing class in February.

Harris finished with 98 tackles and a team-high five pass breakups.

JONOVAN COTTON, LB, Fr. (Northgate) —Despite suffering a season-ending injury during the 2011 season, Cotton managed to tie for the Vikings’ team lead in sacks last season with six before earning a scholarship offer from Fort Valley State.

Georgia ALEC OGLETREE, ILB, Jr. (Newnan) — The junior from Newnan is slated to be the Bulldogs starter at inside linebacker, but faces a reported suspension at the start of the season for a rules violation. He led the Bulldogs with 13 tackles against Michigan State in the Outback Bowl last New’s Years Day. He also had seven tackles and a huge sack for a 17-yard loss for the Bulldogs in the SEC title game against LSU. In the regular-season finale against Georgia Tech he finished with 11 tackles, including 10 solo stops.

Ogletree made a name for himself two years ago as a freshman when he was named the SEC’s Top Newcomer of the Year on Defense, ZANDER OGLETREE, FB, Jr. (Newnan) — Coming out of spring practice, Ogletree was the Bulldogs most experienced starter, but it appears he lost his starting job to Merritt Hall, a one-time walk on for the Bulldogs.

Appeared in 14 games and had a 21-yard run against Georgia Tech last season. Zander was named the most improved offensive player coming out of spring practice.

EDDIE MCQUILLEN, OL, R-Fr. (Trinity Christian) — A preferred walk-on after helping lead Trinity to a 8-man championship in the Independent Christian Schools of Georgia and Alabama, the 6-foot-8, 300-pound tackle continues to work his way into the depth chart on the offensive line. With only two starters returning from the 2011 season and with the eligibility of 6-5, 291-pound redshirt sophomore Kolton Houston in doubt due to a steroid that has remained in his system for two years following shoulder surgery, he has moved up to third on the depth chart on the right side.

COLE TROLINGER, TE, Fr. (East Coweta) — Like McQuillen last year, Trolinger - who played with McQuillen at Trinity before finishing his career at East Coweta - opted to accept an offer as a preferred walk-on at Georgia. The 6-5, 230-pound tight end was a two-way starter for the Indians while also playing defensive line. He caught 10 passes for 86 yards and a touchdown in 2011.

Georgia Military College D.J. MOSLEY, OL/DL, Fr. (East Coweta) — Mosley enters his freshman year after playing in last year’s Georgia Senior All-Star Game at the Georgia Dome.

Georgia Tech RAY BENO, OL, R-Jr. (Newnan) — The redshirt junior played in all 13 games for the Yellow Jackets last season, starting 12. Helped Georgia Tech lead the ACC in rushing offense, total offense and fewest sacks allowed. Beno is first on the depth chart at left tackle going into the season opener at Virginia Tech. The Newnan High graduate is a Dean’s List student at Georgia Tech.

Georgia State JAMAL RANSBY, CB, Jr. (Newnan) — Patience and hard work is on the verge of paying big dividends for Jamal Ransby.

The former All-County standout at Newnan High, who also was part of the Cougars’ back-to-back run to the Class AAAAA semifinals in 2008 and 2009, is once again poised to become an even bigger part of Georgia State’s young history.

Ransby is atop the depth charts at cornerback for the Panthers heading into his junior year and is back on the field following rehabilitation on an injured knee this summer.

After making 17 tackles while playing all 11 games last season, Ransby is hoping to have an even bigger role in Georgia State’s defense this fall following two full years as a contributor.

He ended 2011 strong, making three tackles against West Alabama and a season-high five in a season-ending win over Campbell.

“When I went down I was right there fighting for that number one spot on the depth chart,” said Ransby, who has been rehabbing the knee this summer while taking classes. “I’m expecting I’ll be one-hundred percent.”

The 5-8, 170-pound junior enters the season as the program’s career leader in interceptions with three.

WIL LUTZ, K/P, Fr. (Northgate) — Lutz originally signed with Faulkner University, but instead chose to accept a preferred walk-on offer from Georgia State. An All-County performer in both 2010 and 2011 as a place kicker, Lutz showcased his versatility during his senior year at Northgate, booting field goals of 43, 38 and 42 yards and connecting on 55 of 59 PATs. He also had a 35.2 average on punts and booted 70.5-percent of kickoffs for touchbacks.

Lutz is already pushing returning place kickers Matt Ehasz and Christian Benvenuto in the preseason, with special teams coordinator Jason French telling the AJC that he expects the battle to continue.

ALBERRY MELSON, DE, So. (Newnan) — The number of former Newnan High football standouts playing for the Panthers doubles in 2012 with the transfer of Melson to Georgia State.

The 6-1, 235 pound sophomore defensive end signed with Virginia Union out of high school.

GARRETT SCHREPFER, QB, Fr. (East Coweta) — As a senior, Schrepfer became a full-time starter at quarterback for the Indians while helping lead the team to a 7-4 state playoff season highlighted by throwing for two scores and running for two more in a 28-25 victory over Newnan at Drake Stadium. Schrepfer, who finished his senior year of high school with 1,010 yards passing and 389 yards rushing with eight scores, arrives at Georgia State as a preferred walk-on.

LaGrange CODY DARRACOTT, WR, Fr. (Newnan) — An All-Region 2-AAAAA First Team selection following his only year as a starter, Darracott was Newnan’s leading receiver in 2011 with 35 catches for 529 yards and five touchdowns. As part of LaGrange’s most recent signing class, the 5-6, 154pound freshman could also contribute immediately as a punt returner.

ADAM RABERN, OL, So. (Northgate) — The 6-0, 290-pound sophomore played on LaGrange’s JV squad last season.

ALEX FARMER, OL, So. (Newnan) — The former Cougar starter transferred to LaGrange this season.

ED LOUGHLIN, P/K, So. (The Heritage School) — The 5-6, 188pound former Hawks kicker and punter signed with Presbyterian out of high school before transferring to LaGrange.

Jacksonville State ALAN BONNER, WR/KR, Sr. (Newnan) —Two years ago, Alan Bonner made one of the biggest catches of an overtime victory over Ole Miss. By the close of his senior year, Jacksonville State’s leading receiver in 2011 hopes to be a catalyst for two more potential upsets against SEC opponents that act Alan Bonner as bookends and Jacksonville to the 2012 State face schedule.

Arkansas and More Florida in 2012 importantly, Bonner will be among a trio of Gamecocks players leading that offense of a team that has been picked to finish second in the Ohio Valley Conference and is ranked No. 22 in The Sports Network’s Preseason FCS Top 25 poll.

After leading Jacksonville State with 582 yards on 33 catches in his junior year, the former Cougar AllState receiver continued to show he was his team’s No. 1 target in the spring. During the Gamecocks spring scrimmage, he added five catches for 68 yards and a touchdown.

The 5-11, 168-pound senior receiver joins running back and former Georgia Bulldog Washaun Ealey and quarterback Marques Ivory among a trio of top playmakers on offense. It hopes to offset some of the team’s inexperience on defense early in the year after losing five of its top six leading tacklers.

“We got Marques back, the leader of this football team,” veteran head coach Jack Crowe said. “Along with him, offensively you look for a triplet situation where you have a runner, a thrower and a catcher. You have in Washaun Ealey a premier runner.

You have in Alan Bonner a premier receiver. That becomes the foundation of saying, well, we can make plays. We can make plays behind the line of scrimmage, down the field and you have a quarterback that can get it done.”

It comes in a schedule that Crowe called “the toughest we’ve ever had.” It begins with a trip to Arkansas and ends with a visit to the swamp in Gainesville to play Florida.

The Gators haven’t lost to a midmajor opponent since 1988.

Two years ago, Bonner caught a game-tying touchdown pass with less than 20 seconds left to send a game at Ole Miss into overtime. He’s been a contributor since his freshman year when Crowe called on him as a punt returner on a rainy night at Florida State.

It was like being thrown into the fire,” Bonner said in 2011. “It was a bad night, weather-wise, and the call came so quick and unexpected.

I was really nervous and scared. But once I got on the field, and the ball came down and I had it in my hands, I was confident. I knew then that I could do it, and I haven’t been nervous since then.”

WILL KORAN, LB, Jr. (Newnan) — Koran, a 6-3, 235-pound linebacker who arrived at Jacksonville State a year ago as a transfer from New Haven, will have a chance to compete for a job on a defense that lost four of its top five tacklers.

Lenoir-Rhyne CHRIS ROBINSON, RB, So. (Newnan) —The 5-8, 185-pound sophomore running back played in seven games as a true freshman while gaining 83 yards on 18 carries. The Bears were picked to win the South Atlantic Conference in this year’s preseason conference poll.

JAKE SLAGLE, OL, Fr. (Northgate) — After starting for the Vikings the past two seasons and earning All-County and All-Region honors as a senior during a Region 3-AAAA championship season, Slagle was part of LenoirRhyne’s most recent signing class.

Maryville College JACKSON HARRISON, OL, Fr. (East Coweta) — The 6-0, 260-pound freshman joined the Division III program this fall as a member of its most recent signing class.

Massachusetts Maritime Academy SHELDON ROPER, LB, Jr. (Northgate) — As a sophomore, Roper finished third on the Buccaneers defense with 45 tackles. The 6-2, 195pound former Viking and All-County standout also broke up two passes and blocked a kick during a 5-4 season.

Mercer (begins play in 2013) PATRICK McALPIN, P, Fr. (Newnan) — McAlpin, a two-time All-County as a punter, was part of Mercer’s first signing class. As a senior, he posted a 40.3 yard average on punts. He also landed 15 inside the 20-yard-line and five more inside the 10.

PAYTON USHER, RB, Fr. (Northgate) — Usher finished his varsity career while earning Times-Herald Co-Offensive Player of the Year honors after rushing for 1,019 yards and 17 touchdowns for the Vikings during an 11-1 season that included a Region

3-AAAA championship and an undefeated regular season.

Miles TREVOR TANNER LB, So. (Newnan) — The 6-0, 194-pound former Cougar enters his sophomore year at Miles.

Point ADAM DOWNS, QB/WR/CB, Fr. (Trinity Christian) — Downs, who played with a broken hand during most of his senior year after leading the Lions to an ICSGA 8-man championship, became the first Trinity football player to sign a football scholarship last spring.

Reinhardt (begins play in 2013) NICK SMITH, QB, Fr. (Newnan) — Smith was part of Reinhardt University’s first signing class. The program, led by former longtime East Coweta head coach Danny Cronic, begins play next year. In his only year as a starter for the Cougars, Smith threw for 1,640 yards and 14 touchdowns.

LEON SAPP, LB, Fr. (Northgate) — Sapp led the Vikings in his senior year at middle linebacker with 122 tackles before being signed by Reinhardt head coach Danny Cronic and son, Drew, a former ECHS quarterback who went on to coach at West Georgia and Furman.

MITCH BEMISTER, TE, Fr. (Northgate) —Bemister finished his career on a high note with 11 catches for 205 yards and three touchdowns while helping lead the Vikings to a Region 3-AAAA title and an undefeated regular season.

Savannah State JOVANTE MILLER, DB, Jr. (East Coweta) — The 6-0, 185-pound junior defensive back recorded seven tackles, four solo, while seeing action in seven games last season. He had two solo tackles during last year’s game against Florida A&M on Oct. 15.

Samford CARSON BARNETT, QB, R-Fr. (Landmark Christian) —Barnett, a Sharpsburg resident, was reunited with his older brother Zach, a former high school target with the War Eagles, last year. The 6-1, 190-pound quarterback who originally committed to Elon, will have a chance to compete behind senior Andy Summerlin, a transfer from Memphis, and junior Ben Neill.

ZACH BARNETT, WR, So. (Landmark Christian) — The 5-10, 185-pound sophomore will get a chance to see some playing time this season.

Shorter CHRIS BENO, OL, R-Fr. (Newnan) — The 6-0, 270-pound Beno, whose older brother Ray enters his redshirt junior year at Georgia Tech, will get a chance to compete for a starting job as Shorter begins its first season against Division II competition as a future Gulf South Conference member.

AUSTIN INGRAM, CB, Jr. (East Coweta) —Ingram enters his third year in the program after the 6-2, 180-pound former Indian played in nine games as a sophomore while making 27 tackles, 16 solo last year.

West Georgia ADAM STRAKOSE, LB, Jr. (Newnan) —The 5-10, 212-pound junior expects to be the Wolves’ top veteran linebacker to open the 2012 season. The former All-State Cougar defender has contributed heavily in each of his first two years of college football, playing in all 10 games as a true freshman in 2010 while earning the team’s Outstanding Newcomer Award.

As a sophomore last fall, Strakose played in eight games, making 15 tackles, including three behind the line of scrimmage.

ZACK FORE, DL, So. (East Coweta) — Arriving at West Georgia after playing linebacker in high school, the 6-1, 245-pound Fore returns as a sophomore defensive lineman after seeing time in all 10 games of the 2011 season as a redshirt freshman.

Fore finished with seven tackles last year and forced a fumble while finishing the year with three combined hits in the Wolves’ final two games of the season.

SPENCER WHITEHEAD, OL, R-Fr. (Newnan) — The 6-5, 305 pound Whitehead expects to move into the rotation on the offensive line following a redshirt year in 2011.

MICHAEL COLLINS, DB/S, Fr. (East Coweta) — One of three AllCounty players to sign with West Georgia this year, the 6-2 Collins led the Indians with 124 tackles during his senior year along with two interceptions while also being named First Team AllRegion 2-AAAAA. AUNDRE MORGAN, DL, Fr. (Newnan) — Morgan initially signed with Faulkner but became a late addition to West Georgia’s signing class following a tremendous senior year with the Cougars. The 5-10, 220-pound freshman started at offensive tackle and defensive end in his final year of varsity football, finishing with 48 tackles, eight sacks and a team-high three forced fumbles while earning All-Region and All-County honors.

DAVID SINGLETON, CB, Fr. (East Coweta) — Singleton, who was also a late signee with West Georgia, led Coweta County varsity defenders last season with seven interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. The 5-9, 160-pound cornerback also qualified for last year’s Georgia Olympics in the hurdles.

COWETA COUnTY’S FORMER HIGH SCHOOL PLAYERS IN COLLEGE

Troy KYLE WILBORN, OL, Sr. (The Heritage School) — Troy University didn’t come calling for Kyle Wilborn much like colleges are now pursuing a certain running back at his high school alma mater.

But Trojans head coach Larry Blakeney is certainly glad the one-time Heritage School offensive lineman came looking for them.

“He is a good player. He is a good person. He’s a good student of the game,” Blakeney told Dothan (Ala.) Eagle writer Drew Champlin this summer. “He wasn’t necessarily a 5-star guy, but he’s turned out to be a guy that gets a lot done and gets the most out of his time out there.”

Even after six football-related surgeries as well as one to remove his gall bladder this spring, the 6-4, 299-pound left guard hasn’t let injuries deter him from finishing his college career as four-year starter on the offensive line.

“I’d be lying if I said no, it never popped in my Six football head,” Wilborn told the paper. “I love playing here. I related surgeries love being a part of a team. I love Troy, every part of it. You work that whole career, senior year not being haven’t stopped able to do it, it would kill me personally. I love being former Heritage School standout here and love being around the guys. I just didn’t Kyle Wilborn want to give it up.” from continuing Playing at The Heritage School during the dawn his career at of its football program under head coach Ron Troy.

Beaucham, Wilborn eventually became the first Division I player in Hawks history. It came after he contacted several schools personally and sending them homemade highlight films.

It was only after coaches were headed to Northgate on a recruiting visit that they chose to also stop at Heritage along the way to see Wilborn, getting lost along the way when the school didn’t show up on their GPS. While their initial recruit didn’t pan out, Wilborn has stayed the course since day one.

Four years later, Blakeney feels the senior from Newnan was well worth the risk. After redshirting in 2008, Wilborn worked his way onto Troy’s starting front as a sophomore, playing against SEC opponents including No. 1 Florida during the 2009 season as a starting right tackle.

During nearly every start, Wilborn has played through some type of nagging pain. There was right shoulder surgery after his first full year in 2008, a scope of a knee in 2010 and then both ankle and shoulder surgery in the spring of 2011.

Both shoulders have gone under the knife after tearing the labrum of the left side once and the right side twice.

Last December, after sitting out the last two games of a disappointing 3-9 season, he had shoulder surgery again to repair damage. And just when that seemed like enough, Wilborn had his gall bladder removed in this spring.

His unselfishness, however, didn’t go unnoticed.

“Wilborn played last year when he probably didn’t need to play,” Blakeney told the Dothan paper.

An exceptional student, fluent in German, he became a member of the school’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.

Wilborn was the school’s representative for Sun Belt Conference compliance meetings in New Orleans according to the Dothan paper, while also working with the area Boys & Girls Club.

Should he be able to remain healthy for his final season, Wilborn could potentially land invitations to an NFL camp next year.

Regardless of what his future holds, however, the former Hawks standout would like to finish his college career strong.

“Every player wants that chance to go on to the next level,” he said.

“Obviously I’ve had the injuries, but throughout the season I’ve been able to play through them and take care of them in the offseason. Hopefully I can stay healthy this year.”